New trophy will celebrate Cork School of Music  teacher’s legacy

A new perpetual trophy has been dedicated by Cork’s School of Music to the memory of an exceptionally talented and much-loved teacher who passed away last year.

Munster Technological University (MTU) Cork School of Music has established the Michèle de Foubert Perpetual Trophy, which will be awarded annually to the school’s highest-placed voice student.

Michèle de Foubert, a member of the Fleischmann Choir at the school, passed away at the beginning of last summer.

The trophy was presented to MTU Cork School of Music by Ms de Foubert’s husband David Shine, and Clíona O’Sullivan, manager of the Fleischmann Choir, on behalf of the choir and of her friends who had fundraised for the trophy.

The presentation was made to Professor Alistair Payne, dean of MTU’s Faculty of Creative and Performing Arts and Media, and Maria Judge, head of department in Musicianship and Academic Studies at MTU Cork School of Music.

Friend

Designed by Ali Cullinane, a member of the Fleischmann Choir and a friend of Michèle, the unique trophy was produced by silversmith Chris Carroll.

Ms Cullinane’s design for the trophy symbolised Ms de Foubert’s love of, and talent for, music — particularly as a piano teacher.

In a statement, MTU Cork School of Music said Ms de Foubert was remembered as an exceptionally talented singer, musician, and teacher whose warmth and humour had touched the lives of so many.

“A true force of nature, she shared her gifts in many ways — through Feis Maitiú winning performances, a lifelong connection with the Irish Youth Choir from its formation in 1982, conducting the St Luke’s Church Choir, and as a founder member of the Fleischmann Choir,” it stated.

“Michèle’s passion for music led her to inspire and support countless Cork music students, and the new perpetual trophy will forever celebrate Michèle’s incredible life and enduring legacy, a testament to the joy and the music she brought to all who knew her.”