Composer William Love: A Community Man Ahead of His Time
William Love, a composer renowned for creating some of the most popular flute band songs worldwide, has been described by his grandson as a "community man ahead of his time." He was recognized for his efforts to connect unionist and nationalist musicians on both sides of Londonderry's River Foyle.
Born in the Fountain area of Derry, Love has been commemorated with a blue plaque in the city. It was at his kitchen table that he composed music which later gained popularity among bands throughout Northern Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and the United States.
His compositions, including tunes such as Moore Street, Orangefield, and Charing Cross, continue to be performed today. Additionally, Love wrote music for broadcasts and significant events, including the late Queen's Coronation in 1953.
His father, John, was a piccolo player with the Hamilton Flute Band, a group that William Love himself later joined and conducted.
The plaque was unveiled by the Ulster History Circle on Monday at the New Gate Arts and Culture Centre, located near where Love was raised.
Family Reflections on the Plaque Unveiling
Steve Porter, Love's grandson, shared with NI that the unveiling of the plaque was an emotional occasion that would have deeply moved his late mother, Sandra.
"I've heard so many stories and done a lot of research myself. It's poignant that this plaque is now in the Fountain. He also worked with people across the way in the Bogside so we are talking about a community man ahead of his time,"
"My mum died in 2020 and if she was here her heart would be bursting with pride."
Love attended the former Cathedral school and was a worshipper at St Columb's Cathedral nearby.
Leslie Porter, Love's son-in-law, who lived with him for five years after marrying his daughter, described Love in an interview with BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today.
"He was a quiet man who was most happy with music sheets in front of him at the kitchen table,"
"He rarely played the flute. He just knew the notes and put them down on paper.
"I knew Willie until he died in 1966. He was a lovely man who had a big impact on all communities.
"It's really special being here today. I wouldn't have missed it for the world. It's important that such an important figure in this city is remembered in a very fitting way."
Early Life and Musical Career
William Love pursued a career as a baker, working at the Abercorn Bakery near the city walls. During his early years, he played flute with the Maiden City Flute Band, which practiced in modest settings such as sheds or stables.
He was affectionately known as "Cowboy" Love due to his fondness for western films. After Maiden City, he joined the Churchill Flute Band and also taught in Steelstown.
Love conducted the Owen Roe O'Neill Band from the Bogside and arranged music for them.
Despite his involvement with various bands, his closest association remained with the Hamilton Flute Band, whose current members continue to speak highly of him.
Legacy and Community Impact
Leanne Peacock, a flutist from the Hamilton Flute Band who performed at the plaque unveiling, emphasized Love's enduring influence in the band community.
"William is still remembered and very much loved in the band scene."
"It's important that we pass on to younger generations who he was and the impact he had,"
"His music lives on and we should remember him too."
Brian Dougherty MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the North West Cultural Partnership, highlighted Love's generosity and his role in bridging political divides.
"William Love was very generous with his time across the political divide and it's really important that we recognise that."
"We want to see tourists come off the walls and down into the Fountain and read this plaque."
"William wanted to celebrate musicianship and inclusivity and hopefully in the years to come people will learn more about him."
Some of Love's compositions were performed at the unveiling event, underscoring the lasting appreciation for his work.
