1. Overview
Edward Joseph Friel is a Northern Irish musician and music teacher born in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1962. A graduate with a B.Mus. Honours degree, Friel began his professional career as a music teacher before transitioning into a full-time role as a performing musician and composer. His career highlights include extensive touring as a piano player with acclaimed musician Van Morrison, appearing on Morrison's album Hymns to the Silence. Friel gained international recognition when he represented Ireland in the 1995 Eurovision Song Contest with his song "Dreamin'".
2. Early Life and Background
Edward Joseph Friel's formative years and academic pursuits laid the groundwork for his musical career.
2.1. Birth and Upbringing Environment
Edward Joseph Friel was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1962. His early life unfolded in this significant city, which would later influence his musical journey.
2.2. Education
Friel pursued formal musical education, culminating in a B.Mus. Honours degree. This academic achievement provided him with a strong theoretical and practical foundation in music, which was instrumental in shaping his subsequent career as both an educator and a professional musician.
3. Music Career
Eddie Friel's professional journey in the music industry evolved from a foundational role in education to a dynamic career as a performing artist and composer, marked by significant collaborations and international travel.
3.1. Music Teacher Activities
In 1986, Eddie Friel commenced his professional career as a music teacher. This role allowed him to impart his musical knowledge and skills to others. After approximately one year in this teaching capacity, Friel made the decision to shift his focus, choosing to dedicate himself fully to developing his talents as a performing musician and composer.
3.2. Professional Musician Activities
Following his period as a music teacher, Friel transitioned into a full-time career as a musician and composer. This new phase saw him performing extensively in piano bars, both in his home country of Ireland and abroad. He embarked on a year-long period of travel, performing in various venues across Canada and Europe, honing his craft and expanding his musical experiences.
3.2.1. Collaboration with Van Morrison
A notable aspect of Eddie Friel's career as a professional musician was his collaboration with the renowned artist Van Morrison. Friel toured with Morrison, primarily serving as his piano player. His contributions to Morrison's music were significant, featuring extensively on Van Morrison's critically acclaimed album Hymns to the Silence.
4. Eurovision Song Contest Participation
Eddie Friel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest marked a significant moment in his career, bringing him to an international stage as Ireland's representative.
In 1995, Eddie Friel represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest with his song "Dreamin'". The contest was held in Dublin, Ireland. Despite the anticipation, the song finished in 14th place, receiving 44 points. This outcome was considered disappointing, especially as Norway emerged as the winner of the contest, thereby ending Ireland's remarkable three-year consecutive winning streak in the competition.
5. Discography
Eddie Friel's discography includes both studio albums and singles, showcasing his work as a recording artist.
5.1. Albums
His studio album, My Old Cufflinks, was released in 2012.
| Title | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| My Old Cufflinks |
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| Title | Year |
|---|---|
| "Dreamin'" | 1995 |
| "Missing You Tonight" | 1997 |
6. Evaluation and Impact
Eddie Friel's career has contributed to the musical landscape through his diverse roles as an educator, performer, and composer, culminating in his representation of Ireland on a prominent international stage.
6.1. Positive Evaluation
As a musician and composer, Eddie Friel has made notable contributions to the music scene. His early work as a music teacher demonstrated his commitment to fostering musical talent. His transition to a full-time performing career, including extensive travel and performances in piano bars across Ireland, Canada, and Europe, showcased his versatility and dedication. A significant highlight of his career is his collaboration with the iconic musician Van Morrison, touring as a piano player and contributing to the album Hymns to the Silence. Furthermore, his representation of Ireland in the 1995 Eurovision Song Contest with "Dreamin'" brought his music to a wide international audience, solidifying his place in Irish musical history.