'Play for Parkinson's' is inspired by my father Vincent O'Connell, from Portglenone in County Antrim. He was a pianist and musician as well as a beef and sheep farmer and businessman. Dad passed away over 3 years ago (January 2014) and had Parkinson's for the last 25 years of his life. He passed on his love of music to me and to my brothers and sisters.

As a child he encouraged me to learn the piano, often coming into the sitting room to listen. Then he would suggest new tunes for me to learn. War time favourites such as 'Sally,' melodies from the musicals such as 'Cats' and popular songs from the likes of the Beatles. He was also a huge fan of Liberace, who married musical genius and thrilling showmanship with ease.

My mother Frances also played her part in encouraging me to play. She would often sing away in the background while I stumbled over learning a new tune. Mum was actually giving me early experience of accompanying a singer or soloist, something I went on to do later in life accompanying singers at weddings and church services.

My father was never critical but full of praise for anything I played - no matter how badly!

"Play that one again Fionn" he'd say.

"When he died I couldn't go near the piano for a long time. Now I want to do something in his memory. I wouldn't be playing a piano today if it wasn't for his encouragement and that of my mother's."

I hope other musicians will come forward and get involved with 'Play for Parkinson's.' Northern Ireland has a wealth of musical talent and I would love those who live in North Down and Ards to get involved including some of our great professionals locally.

I will be playing the piano in 'Coffee Yard,' Holywood, County Down, one Saturday a month for a year, from 10.30-11.30am to raise awareness of Parkinson's and to help find a cure.

I'll be there on 23 September, 14 October, 25 November and 9 December and further dates in 2018 between 10.30 and 11.30, playing tunes in his memory.

If you are interested in getting involved please get in touch with me, Fionnuala Cairns at cfionnuala@aol.com, or to donate to 'Play for Parkinson's' please visit my fundraising page www.justgiving.com/Fionnuala-Cairns

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