Ireland 2016 Peace Proms
The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland and the 32-County Children’s Choir preformed in the National Convention Centre on 1 January in “Ireland 2016 Peace Proms”.
The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland was established in 1995 as a peace initiative and is composed of over 100 exceptionally talented young musicians from all over Ireland – north and south. Over the past 20 years, the orchestra has played an important role in building and nurturing vital cross border and cross community relations.
As the orchestra of first choice for National celebrations and commemorations, the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland has had the honour of performing for the President of Ireland, Heads of State and Ambassadors at Áras and Uachtaráin, and Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle.
The Orchestra and Choir were joined on stage by members of the Irish Youth Choir and the Ulster Youth Choir. Soloists included the virtuosa violinist Patricia Treacy, acclaimed young vocalist Sibéal Ní Chaisaide, All-Ireland Champion uileann piper Cormac Keegan and Lambeg Drummer Willie Drennan. The world champions St Colmcille Drum and Pipe Corps from Derry also performed. The concert was conducted by Greg Beardsell. The programme included performances of two compositions by the renowned composer Patrick Cassidy including Mise Eire.
In welcoming guests, Minister Heather Humphreys T.D. stated inter alia:
“This evening, we celebrate every milestone reached so far in the complex and difficult journey towards building peace and look forward to all that we can achieve in the future. Children are at the centre of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme and it is fitting that these exceptionally talented your singers and musicians play such an important role to set the tone for Ireland’s 1916 Centenary Year.”
The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland is an internationally acclaimed and award winning youth orchestra. It has performed to sell out audiences at all major venues in Ireland, and many throughout the world including Carnegie Hall New York (2005 and 2014); the Royal Albert Hall, London; Boston Symphony Hall; Chicago Symphony Hall; and the Oriental Arts Centre Shanghai; the World Trade Expo, Shanghai where they won an international music award for “Outstanding Performance”.
