Focus
A Critical Moment for Choral Singing
Many choirs have not been able to function meaningfully since the pandemic began, but as they start to meet again now is the time to refresh and reflect on their aims, writes Geoffrey Spratt.
David Keenan's Sense of Place
Over the last decade, a number of remarkable artists have emerged from the music scene in Dundalk, David Keenan key among them. This month, he released his poetic second album, "What Then?". But what is it about this border town that generated a different type of music scene, and why now? Shannon McNamee writes about her home county and Keenan's unique voice.
Hear Him Out
Composer Dave Flynn has recently released an album of string quartet and chamber works, 'Irish Minimalism', which combines traditional Irish and contemporary music. James Camien McGuiggan reviews.
The Weight That Cultural Spaces Hold
The latest release from Ergodos is a collection of duets recorded by Ross Turner in the off-stage spaces of the National Concert Hall. Andrea Cleary reviews.
Hollowed Out by Her Past
Donnacha Dennehy and Enda Walsh's new opera, 'The First Child', premiered at the Dublin Theatre Festival at the weekend. Adrian Smith reviews.
Female Grief, Sorrow and Sacrifice
Roger Doyle has recently released his second electronic opera, 'iGirl', with a libretto by Marina Carr. Michael Quinn reviews.
We Have Celebrated Ó Riada Enough
On 25 September, the National Concert Hall, the Arts Council and RTÉ presented two tribute concerts to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Seán Ó Riada's death. Toner Quinn reviews.
Shouting About Housing
'Music for Cranes', a site-specific performance by Kirkos ensemble, recently took place as part of the Dublin Fringe Festival. James Camien McGuiggan reviews.
A Glimpse into Her Inner World
A collection of songs by Ina Boyle has been just released on Delphian Records and features Paula Murrihy, Robin Tritschler, Ben McAteer and Iain Burnside performing 33 works by the twentieth-century Irish composer. Adrian Smith reviews.
No One is Talking About What Musicians Get Paid
The new report on the night-time economy has 36 recommendations, but it has an unfortunate blindspot, writes Toner Quinn.