Off The Record: Feast of colorful works to take over Limerick's St Mary's Cathedral

FOR A world premiere, two of the country’s foremost music ensembles will join forces to present a feast of colourful works.

Under the baton of Cormac McCarthy, the Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) and the Chamber Choir Ireland (CCI) will perform in Limerick, on March 16.

To coincide with Seachtain na Gaeilge, the biggest Irish language festival in the world, the programme will feature the world premiere of ‘AmraCholuim Chille,’ by composer and conductor Eoghan Desmond.

To write music that showcases a deep understanding of the voice and its capabilities, Desmond draws on his vast experience as a choral singer and bass-baritone. This new Irish language cantata for choir, strings, harp and percussion is inspired by Irish traditional music.

The performance will also feature well-known songs such as ‘Columba,’ ‘O virtus sapientiae,’ ‘Silouan’s Song,’ ‘Fratres’ or ‘Rakastava.’

Ireland’s most dynamic ensemble, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, delivers world-class concerts with energy and style.

Mixing traditional repertoire with new commissions and collaborating with everyone from DJs to dance companies, they push the boundaries of what a chamber orchestra can do.

The country’s national chamber choir and flagship choral ensemble, Chamber Choir Ireland is recognised for its eclectic and creative commissioning, programming and recording.

It also delivers an extensive learning and participation programme across the country.

For a fabulous celebration of music and songs from saints and scholars, the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the Chamber Choir Ireland will perform on Thursday, March 16 at St Mary’s Cathedral, from 7.30pm.

Tickets via irishchamberorchestra.com