Donal Doherty

Dónal Doherty was educated in the Schola Cantorum, Mullingar, University College, Dublin and the National University of Ireland. Important early influences were Frank McNamara (Director, Schola Cantorum) Mabel Swainson (piano) and Gerard Gillen (organ).

Following several organ and choral appointments in Dublin, Dónal moved to Derry in 1982 where he was appointed Director of Music in St Eugene's Cathedral and Head of Music in St Columb's College.

From 1992 – 2000 he was co-founder and joint artistic director, along with Timothy Allen of St Columb’s Cathedral, of the Two Cathedrals’ Festival.

In 1996 Dónal was appointed Head of Music Services for the Western Education and Library Board. The City of Derry Civic Choirs were established in 1997 with the support of Derry City Council, WELB and the Arts Council. From an initial group of 2 choirs, the scheme has now expanded to cater for over 200 choristers performing in a variety of ensembles: Primary Girls, Junior Girls, Boys, Youth and Codetta, an internationally recognised adult chamber choir.

Dónal has worked extensively as a performer, conductor and adjudicator.

He has served as an executive member of the National Association of Music Educators and on the editorial board of the British Journal of Music Education. He is currently an executive member of the Federation of Music Services and a board member of both the Ulster Youth Orchestra and the Ulster Youth Choir.