Founded in 1970 and funded by The Arts Council of Ireland/An Chomhairle Ealaíon, the Irish Chamber Orchestra mixes traditional repertoire with new commissions and collaborates with everyone from DJs to dance companies, pushing the boundaries of what a chamber orchestra can do. Each year, the orchestra presents concert seasons in both Limerick and Dublin, embarks on two national tours, and makes a series of prestigious international appearances supported by Culture Ireland. The driving force behind the orchestra’s recent success is its Principal Conductor/Artistic Partner, Jörg Widmann, a composer, conductor and clarinettist whose irrepressible energy and pursuit of excellence has enabled the Irish Chamber Orchestra to expand its horizons, attracting outstanding international performers such as Thomas Zehetmair, Brett Dean, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Tabea Zimmermann, Igor Levit, and Elisabeth Leonskaja. Widmann’s enthusiasm and commitment is matched by the orchestra itself, led by the ebullient Katherine Hunka. In addition to being one of Ireland’s greatest cultural ambassadors, the Irish Chamber Orchestra is also a charitable organisation. Our ground breaking Community Outreach programmes, Sing Out with Strings and the Irish Chamber Orchestra Youth Orchestra provide free music education to children and young people living in the regeneration areas of Limerick. Hailed as models of social inclusion, these life enhancing programmes offer opportunities for young people, developing key life skills, and providing tangible long-term benefits for participants, their families and the wider community. To find out about corporate sponsorship opportunities and the different ways in which to support our Community Outreach programmes, contact Joanne Tierney, Development Manager on 087 6413060 or email [email protected]. Nationally – What the experts say about the Irish Chamber Orchestra
“…a tautness of energy, sometimes touched with fierceness that kept one on the edge of one’s seat…The performance was riveting from start to finish.”
Michael Dervan, Irish Times
“The ICO unleashed some ferocious strings and percussion accompanying Steve Wall and the gang to deliver an overpowering set finale.”
Golden Plec
“The Irish Chamber Orchestra delivered with its usual panache.”
Dick O’Riordan, Sunday Business Post
“There is a taut vivacity to the playing of this orchestra.”
George Hamilton, The Irish Independent
Internationally – What the experts say about the Irish Chamber Orchestra
“They are a refreshing combination of serious musicianship.”
Jens F. Larson, Forbes Magazine
“…captivating music making…it gleams and sparkles everywhere.”
klassicheute.com
Sing Out with Strings Testimonials
“An excellent programme delivered by outstanding, dedicated and committed teachers. Sing Out with Strings has enriched the lives of our children and the whole community”. Jacinta MacNamara, Former Principal, St. Mary’s National School
“Parents play a strong role in the community element of the programme. Many children share their musical skills with their families and wider community circles, encouraging parents, grandparents and siblings to participate in familial and community music-making. “
Mary Blennerhassett, Former Principal, Le Chéile National School
“The passion and pride has also spilled over into the community as is evidenced from feedback from parents who turn up in large numbers to hear the children perform in school and in other public venues…The programme has brought a huge esprit de corps to the school. Long may this programme continue.”
Anne Madden, Junior and Senior Infants Teacher
“I feel brave playing in concert.”
4th Class Student
“I like that practicing all pays off in concert. Someday we’ll be famous!”
4th Class Student
“It’s fun and it inspires me. All the teachers are kind and playing makes me feel happy.”
I.C.O. Registered Charity Number: 20022006.
