As part of their Nature & Ecology theme for 2025, Galway Music Residency is exploring the beauty and mystery of birds. This May ConTempo Quartet, Galway’s Ensemble-in-Residence, will perform works celebrating various birds, from their song to their mesmerising flight.

The repertoire will include Joseph Haydn’s String Quartet Op. 64, No. 5, nicknamed ‘The Lark’ with its soaring theme in the first violin evoking the melodious voice of this beautiful species of bird. The programme will also explore the sounds of the Swallow and Barn Owl through excerpts from Leoš Janáček’s On an Overgrown Path. The frenetic energy of bird flight will be explored through performances of Alex Roth’s Bird Drama, a movement from his first string quartet Klee Pictures, as well as Flocking III by Irish-based composer Nick Roth.

Entry is free (donations gratefully accepted), all are welcome. Tickets will need to be booked online, as the venue can only accommodate 70 patrons. Tickets will be available free of charge at www.mountcarmelconcerts.ie from the 12th of May.

Galway Music Residency is proudly supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, University of Galway (Education Partner) and Galway City and County Councils. For further information, visit www.galwaymusicresidency.ie