Pre-concert talk 7pm, concert start 7.30pm

Two of the most exciting musicians in Ireland at the present time.

Violinist Patrick Rafter and pianist Michael McHale come together to present a programme of Mozart, Ravel, Debussy, Ysaÿe and Franck. This a wonderful opportunity to see these two players in the intimate surrounds of St Peter’s Church of Ireland. The concert also features as a focal point for a new education project involving primary school students, funded by Creative Ireland.

Patrick Rafter, violin
Born into an exceptionally musical family in Kilkenny, Patrick Rafter became recognized as a prodigious talent at the mere age of 12 and went on to receive a full scholarship to study at the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM).

Today, Patrick is studying in Switzerland with international violinist Maxim Vengerov. They recently shared the stage of the National Concert Hall in Dublin when they performed Bach’s Concerto for two violins, to great audience and critical acclaim. Patrick previously performed in Drogheda as soloist with Camerata Ireland.

Michael McHale, piano
Belfast-born Michael McHale has established himself as one of Ireland’s leading pianists and has developed a busy international career as a solo recitalist, concerto soloist and chamber musician.

Michael’s musical partners include Michael Collins (clarinet), Sir James Galway (flute) as well as being a performer with the Vanbrughs. This is Michael’s third performance in Drogheda having previously performed with Michael Collins and also Musici Ireland.

Concert programme
Mozart Violin Sonata No. 21 in E Minor, K. 304
Debussy Estampes, II. La soirée dans Grenade; III. Jardins sous la pluie
Debussy Sonata for violin and piano, L. 148
Ravel Tzigane
Ysaÿe Sonata No. 3 for solo violin “Ballade”
Franck Sonata in A major for violin and piano