It’s that time of year again and Mayo County Council’s Arts Office is about to start its July long series of concerts. Travelling throughout the county, this year the series promises to be one to remember.
On Friday July 3 at 8pm the Irish Baroque Orchestra will perform in Holy Trinity Church, Westport. Created in 1996 by Mark Duley and Thérese Timoney, the Irish Baroque Orchestra has worked with many of the world’s greatest baroque players and conductors. In 2006 Claire Duff was appointed leader of the orchestra and the internationally renowned violinist Monica Huggett became artistic director. Using baroque instruments or modern replicas, the orchestra explores the playing techniques and stylistic practices associated with music from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Then it’s off to Ballina on Thursday July 9 where The David Munnelly Band will entertain an audience in St Michael’s Church at 8pm. The David Munnelly Band has been entertaining American and European audiences on a regular basis since 2005, combining the famed wildness of spirit of west Mayo music with the jazz and swing rhythms of New York in the twenties. At the helm of the band is the ‘Bullet from Belmullet’, David Munnelly, who has committed himself to forging a unique sound on the traditional music circuit. The David Munnelly Band has toured the US and Holland already this year, and concerts in Ireland, Italy, Spain, Denmark, and England are confirmed.
Mayo County Council's Summer Music Series will feature eight musical performances in venues all around the county. Achill, Castlebar, Ballyhaunis, Belmullet, Westport, Ballina, Charlestown, and Louisburgh are all stops on the Summer Music Series in 2009. Many tastes are catered for in an exciting, eclectic, programme featuring some of the finest musical talent from local, national, and international musicians.
The series has a huge following and although the concerts are all free of charge and open to the public, booking in advance is essential (max six people per booking ). For a full programme of events or to book contact the arts office on 094 9024444, ext 7560, or e-mail: [email protected]
