Was sent for by Dr. Scannell to hurriedly get my photo taken and appeared in ‘Examiner’ some time after with a scholarship-senior, Costigan. It was a hideous likeness, much to my mortification. Then he had the kindness to take us for a day and a half to Bantry in his car. We had a great time, driving and eating for most of the time. Stayed over-night with good old Canon Murphy. Served the Doctor’s Mass at the Convent. The first time in my life. Was nervous and made stupid mistakes.
Terrible discussions, doubt, procrastinations and hesitations as to whether I shall go for B.Mus. or B.A. or both, and as to which I shall take my doctor in: N.U.I., Trinity or Oxford. Went to see Prof. O’Rahilly, the Registrar, a friend of Páp’s, and after a long talk he decided that it was best for me to go for First Arts at any rate. So went away satisfied, but got afterwards more unconvinced than ever. Mr. Neeson advocated B.A. without B.Mus. in College at all. Mám for B.Mus. without B.A. at all. So where am I myself? Prof. Lacy ((Prof. Frederick St. John Lacy (1852-1935), composer, singer, teacher of singing, lecturer in music at University College Cork 1906-1909, professor 1909-1934. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and was a prolific and successful composer. The music department in Cork was very small, producing but five music graduates during his time. Aloys was the third of these, receiving from Lacy a thorough training in the craft of composition.)) gave best advice of all: B.Mus. alone for 3 years and then take B.A. the year after! That’s what I will do if it is possible.
Have begun organ-practice and pedalling. Finished selections from Ruskin. Have profited immensely by the clear sensuous language and reasoning. Began ‘As you like it’.
