Category: Vocal Music / Art Song
Instrumentation: voice, piano
Duration: 6 minutes
Text / Source: Poems by Cathal ó Searcaigh, Nuala O'Connor, and Gabriel Rosenstock; English translations by Nigel McLoughlin and Michael S. Begnal where noted

Songs:
November 1994
Tattoo
Frida Kahlo's Palette
Woman and Cosmetics
Insomnia 
Music's Path

Songs From Irish Poetsis a six-song cycle for voice and piano, commissioned by mezzo-soprano Christine Thomas-O'Meally. The cycle brings together poetry by Cathal ó Searcaigh, Nuala O'Connor, and Gabriel Rosenstock, forming a concise and varied collection of contemporary art songs shaped by Irish literary voices.

The six songs—November 1994, Tattoo, Frida Kahlo's Palette, Woman and Cosmetics, Insomnia, and Music's Path—move through love, color, self-perception, humor, sleeplessness, and the mystery of music’s origins. Baxter’s lyrical vocal writing and tonal clarity allow each text to speak directly, while his contemporary harmonic color gives each song a distinct emotional and dramatic profile.

Songs From Irish Poets is well suited for vocal recitals, contemporary art song programs, mezzo-soprano repertoire, and concerts centered on Irish poetry, translation, identity, and modern song. The cycle’s brevity and variety make it useful as a complete programmed set, while individual songs may also stand alone in recital.