Music for Galway Launches 43rd International Concert Season

It was a spectacle to behold as the sun shone on an early September day from the top floor of Bonham Quay as Music for Galway launched their 43rd International Concert Season. Hosted by Lorcan Murray, the renowned presenter of RTÉ lyric fm’s flagship show Classic Drive, it was a celebration of music, community, and Irish connections. The evening was further enriched by a captivating performance from Adam Buttimer on tuba.

The spirit was light-hearted as the audience heard how Lorcan had to play an extra-long rendition of Strauss on air to make it from the Galway studios on time. 

A Year of Irish Connections

Anna Lardi, CEO of Music for Galway, reflected on the journey leading up to this season, noting the transformative impact of Cellissimo, their large-scale project from May. 

As the season's lineup took shape, a common thread began to emerge—Irish artists and Irish historical connections were prevalent in nearly every concert. 

This organic development inspired the season's theme, Irish Connections.

Sustainability and Community Engagement

In his remarks, Lorcan praised Music for Galway’s commitment to sustainability, a key theme in this year's season. 

"For me, Music for Galway, now in its 43rd year, is truly special. I was particularly struck by the sustainability efforts Music for Galway has undertaken. It’s hard enough to attract artists to play and perform, without adding sustainability into the mix. The fact that they make the effort to minimise their environmental impact shows how much they’ve achieved and how much the artists trust them."

Murray also highlighted their success in connecting artists with the local community. 

"Music festivals are all about bringing people together, and it’s wonderful to see the local community being engaged as well. Not only do the artists get to perform in the main venues, but they also get to connect with the community in more intimate settings. That’s a fantastic idea and makes the experience even more special for everyone involved."

A Season Rich with Talent and Collaboration

Finghin Collins, Artistic Director, provided insight into the rich and varied programme planned for the season. 

"The season ahead has many, many riches, and we are delighted to have both of the national orchestras. The RTÉ Concert Orchestra will open our season with a marvellous programme that should be absolutely fabulous. Then, we’ll have a more traditional classical programme in February with the National Symphony Orchestra, featuring a wonderful violinist."

Collins also underscored the importance of showcasing both the light and dark sides of society through music, as well as fostering Irish collaborations. 

"We have many, many great Irish talents coming. I think it’s important that we shine a light on the darker sides of our society, as well as bringing music to cheer. We are particularly excited about our Irish collaborations. We are very proud to stand by all these talents. We urge you to spread the word about us to all of your friends, come to all of our concerts, and enjoy the music."

Support from Galway

Speaking to Xplore, Cllr Peter Keane, Mayor of Galway City, expressed the city’s unwavering support for Music for Galway. 

"I'm happy to be here, not just as the Mayor, but as a representative of the people of the city to say that we’re behind you. We will continue to support you, and we will continue to fund you in whatever way we can. I’d always like to think we’ll do a little bit more than we did before."

Keane also shared his personal excitement for the upcoming season, particularly highlighting the Good Friday event. 

"I’m really looking forward to the programme; it looks like such an exciting lineup for the year ahead. For me, the Good Friday event is something I'm really looking forward to. I loved what Lorcan Murray said in his contribution here at the launch this evening about that, and about the artists who partake in it. It brings us back to the whole religious theme of the day."

All photos by Photographer In Galway Gary Vaughan

For the full programme see: Music for Galway