Criticism
Spinning the Orchestra
Composer and turntablist Shiva Feshareki joined the BBC Concert Orchestra for the premiere of her work 'Dialogues' as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival. Anna Murray reviews.
Anchoring the Tension
Toner Quinn reviews a Music and Musings concert in Galway featuring the world premiere of Greg Caffrey's fourth string quartet.
Layering Irony and Politics
Irish National Opera's final production of its first season is a non-traditional retelling of Verdi's 'Aida' featuring Gwyn Hughes Jones, Orla Boylan and Imelda Drumm in the lead roles. A visually spectacular production, it brings the story's imperialism to the centre, writes Brendan Finan.
Sounding from the Page
Known for his innovative music broadcasting, John Kelly's first collection of poetry, 'Notions', which has just been published by Dedalus Press, finds beauty in the small things, writes Laura Sheary.
Opera and Dance Music from the Poly-Doyle
Brendan Finan reviews two recordings from the diverse musical world of Roger Doyle – his 2018 'Heresy' opera and a forthcoming release of new pieces based on the same work.
Fiery Choral Competition in Derry
Marc Gregg reviews the Saturday night at the recent City of Derry International Choral Festival and experiences the intense, creative nature of competition.
Traditional Psychodrama
The 4th Tradition Now festival took place at the NCH at the end of October. Anna Murray reviews a new work for Iarla Ó Lionáird and a performance of Sam Perkin's 'Pause' based on the song 'The Foggy Dew'.
The Gift of Music
Yvonne Casey's second solo fiddle album 'Croí' displays a very individual and developed style, writes Adrian Scahill.
Hard Questions Matter
In a raw and discomfiting experience at the MAC in Belfast, Josette Bushell-Mingo explored the political and musical legacy of Nina Simone, writes Laura Watson.
Beyond the Walls
In the fourth review from our 2018 Northern Ireland Music Writer Mentoring Scheme, supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Aine Cronin-McCartney attends Ulster Orchestra's EO Lab collaboration with singer-songwriters and electronic artists.