Joseph O'Kelly

Full biography Joseph O'Kelly

Joseph O'Kelly was an Irish composer, pianist, and choral conductor who lived from 1828 to 1885. He was not only a composer but also wrote numerous piano pieces and songs as well as conducting choirs. O'Kelly wrote nine operas in his career, which was quite a significant achievement for his time. Some of his notable works include "La Zingarella," which is an opera about an opera, and "Rêves du Soir!" He also wrote four cantatas and numerous piano pieces and songs during his life as a composer.

O'Kelly came from an Irish musical family that had settled in Paris in the mid-1830s. His father, George O'Kelly, was also a composer and piano teacher, while his brother, Henri O'Kelly, was a well-known Franco-Irish composer, pianist, organist, and choir director based in Paris. O'Kelly was married to Jane O'Leary, who was also a composer.

Although he was not as well-known as some of his contemporaries, O'Kelly made a significant contribution to the world of music during his lifetime. His works were popular in Ireland and France, and he was known for his melodic and romantic style. O'Kelly's music was also well-received by critics, who praised him for his skill in combining different musical elements.

Overall, Joseph O'Kelly was an accomplished composer who made a significant contribution to the world of music during his lifetime. His works continue to be appreciated and performed by musicians and music lovers around the world.