Frank Patterson

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For Canadian politician, see Frank Patterson (politician).

Frank Patterson (October 5, 1938 – June 10, 2000) was a world-famous Irish tenor. He was known as "Ireland's Golden Tenor." His albums include Ireland in Song, Ireland's Best Loved Ballads, I Can Almost See Ireland From Here, God Bless America: An Irish Salute, and Sings Sacred Songs of Ireland.

Patterson's repertoire was wide, covering lieder, oratorio, hymns, ballads, and traditional songs, as well as a few popular songs such as "My Heart Will Go On" from the 1997 movie Titanic and "The Wind Beneath My Wings". His sincere way of expressing emotion through song revealed dedication to his music, and to the people who listened to it.

Patterson was born in Clonmel, County Tipperary. He appeared in two films: Michael Collins and a film based on James Joyce's short story, The Dead.

The latter film was the last to be directed by John Huston. Patterson's character was named Bartell D'Arcy. Though the role was small it was significant given that the song "The Lass of Aughrim", which he sang in the film is critical to the plot of movie. This movie was widely praised and greatly contributed to Patterson's increased popularity in his later years.

Frank Patterson died in New York of brain cancer at the age of 61. He was married to the musician Eily O'Grady with whom he had a son, Eanan.^[1]