His original compositions often drew on legends and epic poetry,
notably "The Children Of Lir".
"Person of the Year" Award, 1992, from the City of Limerick, for
contributions to Irish culture. IRMA Gold Record Award for The Children
of Lir, 1995. Distinguished Achievement Medal, 1996, University of
Limerick.
Cassidy did not stop by composing merely the three-minute on-screen
part of the outdoor opera of Dante's "La Vita Nuova", as seen in
"Hannibal" (2001), but has now composed an entire opera.