Blue plaque to be unveiled to '˜first lady of music'

Alexandrina McCausland Stewart founded the Londonderry Philharmonic Society in 1899 and, a year later, established the Feis Ceoil.

The Ulster History Circle will be in Derry on Monday to showcase the tribute at her former home in Crawford Square. Mayor Elisha McCallion will perform the official unveiling at 11.30 a.m.

Born in Dublin, Alexandrina McCausland Stewart and her husband moved to Derry in 1898 and quickly became involved in the musical life of the city.

Chris Spurr, Chairman of the Ulster History Circle, says: “When Alexandrina Stewart embraced Ireland’s city of music, the result was a harmonious partnership, founding first the Londonderry Philharmonic Society and then Derry’s Feis Ceoil. The Ulster History Circle is delighted to commemorate this leading lady of music and we would like to thank Derry City and Strabane District Council for their financial support towards the plaque.”

After the unveiling, Alexandrina’s ‘life in music’ will be celebrated at the Tower Museum.