LETTERKENNY woman Amy Gillen has been selected as the 2023 London Rose of Tralee.
Born to Aisling and Billy Gillen, Amy currently resides in the vibrant heart of Central London.
Currently working as a freelance musician and teacher, Amy’s musical journey began with her pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Flute Performance and Licentiate Teaching Diploma at Trinity College Dublin and the Royal Irish Academy of Music.
Her dedication to her craft and exceptional talent led her to further her studies at the prestigious Royal College of Music in London, where she earned a Master’s degree in Classical and Jazz Flute with distinction.
Amy’s remarkable musical achievements have been acknowledged by receiving the Tagore Gold Medal for her significant musical contributions and her impact on the Royal College of Music community.
On May 26, the talented musician was selected from 15 other hopefuls at the annual London Rose of Tralee selection ball at the Clayton Hotel Chiswick.
Wowing the judges with a flute performance of the famous song by Phil Coulter, The Town I Loved So Well, she impressed the 200 strong audience with stories from her musical career and her excitement at recording her first solo album which is set to be released this year.
Amy was presented her sash by outgoing 2022 London Rose Hayley Reynolds after Chairman Noel O’Sullivan announced her as the winner.
Over the last two weeks, the finalists were treated to a replica Rose of Tralee mini tour to give them a taste of the Tralee experience which included a reception with Ambassador Martin Fraser at the Irish Embassy, a wellbeing session that focuses on self-worth and resilience, a visit to a variety of Irish owned establishments such as Hercules Bar on Holloway Rd, Homeboys Bar in Islington and Ye Olde Monken Holt in High Barnet.
Delighted to be selected as the 2023 London Rose of Tralee, Amy said she is ready to give it her all.
“I am deeply grateful for the wonderful opportunity.
“Thank you to the London Rose Centre for placing your faith in me.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be chosen to participate in one of Ireland’s most iconic, internationally recognised festivals,” she said.
Looking ahead to the Rose of Tralee Festival in August, Amy said she is looking forward to meeting and spending time with all the incredible ladies from all parts who will be participating in the festival.
“Tralee here we come,” she said.
In the meantime, Amy has been working tirelessly on her new album ‘Flute Chapters’, which she released last month.
The album features six tracks chosen by Amy that reflect the development of the flute repertoire through the years, chapters in an evolving story.
The album showcases the incredible versatility and sound capacity of the flute whilst also paying homage to composers who have and had a special association with the flute.
If you are interested you can check it out on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes etc. CDs of the album are also available in Tower Records Dublin and via www.amygillenflute.com.
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