Ulster University has awarded an Honorary Doctorate to Sir James Galway, marking a triumphant homecoming for one of the most influential flutists in history. The ceremony, held at the University’s Belfast campus, paid tribute to his unparalleled artistic achievements and to a career that has shaped the direction of modern flute playing across generations and continents.
In conjunction with the conferral, the University opened a two-week public exhibition dedicated to Sir James’s life and musical legacy, offering visitors a rare look at archival materials, collaborations, and milestones from his extraordinary career. The exhibition remains open until Thursday, 27 November at 5:00 pm.
A Historic Recognition for a Belfast Legend
Born in Belfast in 1939, Sir James Galway rose from local flute bands to become principal flutist of the Berlin Philharmonic before launching one of the most successful solo flute careers of all time. His unmistakable sound, global outreach, and charismatic artistry earned him the title “The Man with the Golden Flute,” with album sales exceeding 30 million worldwide.
Ulster University’s Honorary Doctorate acknowledges not only his artistic brilliance but also his lifelong dedication to education. Through the Galway Flute Academy, founded with Lady Jeanne Galway, he has mentored countless young flutists and championed the value of musical training around the world.
During the ceremony, Sir James spoke with deep affection about Belfast’s lasting imprint on his musicianship and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the University’s commitment to fostering creativity and opportunity in the next generation.
Tributes from University Leadership
University representatives praised Sir James’s profound contributions:
- Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the global impact of Galway’s artistry and noted how his early involvement in forming the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra reflects values shared by Ulster University: access, inspiration, and artistic growth.
- Dr Colin Davidson, Chancellor, emphasized Galway’s role as a cultural ambassador whose career demonstrates the transformative power of music and the enduring strength of Belfast’s artistic heritage.
A Musical Celebration in His Honor
The ceremony featured an impressive musical programme by leading ensembles from across Northern Ireland:
- The EA Music Belfast Advanced Chamber Ensemble welcomed attendees with classical selections.
- The City of Belfast Youth Orchestra performed Rimsky-Korsakov’s Procession of the Nobles.
- The Ulster Orchestra Horn Quartet premiered Fanfare for Sir James Galway, a new work by Professor Frank Lyons inspired by Mozart’s Flute and Harp Concerto.
- The Ulster University Choir delivered expressive performances of Randall Stroope’s setting of Yeats’s “He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven” and the well-loved “Danny Boy.”
- The Youth Orchestra closed with Ronan Hardiman’s Lord of the Dance, arranged by Larry Moore.
The musical offerings created an atmosphere of celebration, gratitude, and deep respect for a figure whose influence continues to resonate throughout the flute community worldwide.
Exhibition: A Life of Artistry
Following the ceremony, guests explored a curated exhibition highlighting key chapters of Sir James Galway’s career. Among the featured materials are documents and visual archives relating to his collaborations, including the landmark recording and performances of John Corigliano’s Pied Piper Fantasy.
The exhibition offers an intimate portrait of a musician whose legacy bridges tradition and innovation — and invites the public to engage with the story of a flutist who has redefined what is possible on the instrument.
