The School of Engineering at Trinity College Dublin is proud to showcase a new podcast produced by Dr. Jimmy Eadie, Deputy Course Director of the MPhil in Music and Media Technologies, and a faculty member of the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering. This compelling documentary delves into the remarkable story of the New Irish Recording Company (NIRC), an unsung hero in the history of Irish classical music.
Founded in 1971 by Seamus O’Neill, Rodney Senior, and Darby Carroll, the NIRC was a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to recording and promoting contemporary Irish classical music.
At a time when the music industry was dominated by international giants like Deutsche Grammophon, EMI, and Decca, the NIRC courageously embarked on an ambitious mission: to showcase both classical recorded repertoire and the original work of Irish composers to a global audience.
Operating on a modest budget, the company defied the odds, producing around 20 full-length recordings and achieving international recognition for Irish classical music. Some of these recordings were even created within Trinity’s own historic chapel. Yet, despite its profound contributions to Ireland’s cultural heritage, the story of the NIRC remains largely untold.
Dr. Eadie’s podcast brings this extraordinary legacy to life, highlighting the achievements of three Trinity alumni—James Mallinson, Rodney Senior, and Bill Somerville Large—who played pivotal roles in the NIRC’s success. Alongside Seamus O’Neill and Darby Carroll, these innovators crafted a lasting impact on the fields of music production and audio engineering.
Through insightful interviews and archival recordings, the documentary explores the NIRC’s innovative approach to music production, its cultural significance, and its enduring influence on Ireland’s music heritage. It also sheds light on the technical challenges the team overcame, from sourcing recording equipment to finding performance venues, all while staying true to their artistic vision.
Dr. Eadie, whose own work bridges music and engineering, brings a unique perspective to this narrative. As an expert in sound design and audio technology, his production highlights not only the musical achievements of the NIRC but also the technical ingenuity that made them possible.
This podcast is essential listening for music lovers, historians, and anyone fascinated by Ireland's rich cultural legacy in music production and audio engineering.
By revisiting the untold story of the NIRC, Trinity College Dublin continues to celebrate innovation, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Irish music.
For more information about the MPhil in Music and Media Technologies, visit here.
Listen now and discover a hidden chapter of Irish music history:
New Irish Recording Company Podcast.