Danny Boy (The Derry Air) - Frank Patterson, 1985

'Ireland's Golden Tenor' Frank Patterson tells the story of and sings Danny Boy (The Derry Air), a song known throughout the world. ‘Frank Patterson’s Ireland’ is a musical exploration of the island with the renowned tenor filmed performing many of his favourite songs filmed on locations across the island. Overlooking Derry City and the Craigavon Bridge, Frank Patterson introduces ‘Danny Boy’ and provides some background to the song also known as ‘The Derry Air’. Perhaps the most famous of all Irish melodies is The Derry Air. Written in the sixteenth century, the tune was first heard played by a traditional fiddler called McCormack on the streets of the market town of Limavady in County Derry in 1851. The lyrics came later, written by songwriter Frederic Weatherly in 1913. Austrian violinist Friedrich “Fritz” Kreisler once said that the tune had the most beautiful melody he had ever heard. The words have a special meaning as a mother bids a fond farewell to her son who is about to leave for war. This version of ‘Danny Boy’ is accompanied with images of Derry City, the Giant’s Causeway, and Powerscourt Waterfall. ‘Frank Patterson’s Ireland’ was broadcast on 17 March 1985.