A welcome call from Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day

On this past St. Patrick’s Day, many of the longtime listeners to the Frank Truatt Morning Show on WTBQ Radio (AM 1110/F M 93.5)/ WGHT (AM 1500/FM 98.3) had a pleasant surprise when former Warwick resident Carl Corcoran called in from his home in Dublin, Ireland.

In the 1990s and until he returned to Ireland, Corcoran was a Warwick resident during which time he hosted a Saturday show on WTBQ titled, “A Drop of the Irish,” along with a daily popular music program.

‘Dancing the Dublin Reel’

After retiring from broadcasting in Ireland, he is now Course Director of a Masters Degree in Songwriting at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance in the University of Limerick. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Irish Music Network.

While living in Warwick he produced an award-winning CD, “Dancing the Dublin Reel.”

Corcoran also co-authored two songs for the 10th anniversary of September 11 ceremonies held in New York and a recent release, “Atlantic Sky,” a song that pays tribute to all those who crossed the Atlantic to contribute to a great America.

And he also aired another song, “To Feel the Power of Love,” for the first time in America on WTBQ and its sister station in New Jersey, WGHT.

Many Warwick residents have also enjoyed Corcoran’s appearances and concerts in local venues like Boodles Opera House in Chester.

Irish COVID-19 restrictions

During the St. Patrick’s Day broadcast he spoke about some future plans including a possible visit to Warwick.

Currently, however, there are COVID-19 restrictions in Ireland, ranging in level depending on the area or county and the number of cases reported. And Dublin it at a high level.

“We’re not allowed to drive more than five kilometers or about three miles from home,” he said adding that he was fortunate to be living in a more rural area of the city where he could go out and enjoy some greenery.

He also praised WTBQ station owner Frank Truatt for giving him a start in broadcasting, a major inspiration that led to his successful radio career in Ireland.

“I saw the talent,” responded Truatt. “You did the rest.”

- Roger Gavan