Patron of The Arts
Martyn began writing fiction and plays in the 1880s. While his own output was never very distinguished, he acquired a well-earned reputation as a noted connoisseur of music, both European classical and Irish traditional. He was a fine musician in his own right, giving memorable performances for guests on an organ he had installed at Tullira.
Martyn used his great wealth to benefit Irish culture. His activities and sponsorships included:
- foundation of the Palestrina Choir in 1903
- funding and direction of St. Brendan's Cathedral, Loughrea
- co-founder and endowing of the Feis Ceoil
- president of Na hAisteoirÃ, the Irish-language drama group
- sponsored and guided An Túr Gloine, Ireland's first stained-glass workshop
He encouraged Hugh Lane to found an Irish national art gallery, but this was prevented by Lane's death on the Lusitania.
Read more about this topic: Edward Martyn
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