Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Michael Holmes, was on hand in the Holy Trinity Church, Westport, last Sunday to officially launch a music festival with a difference for Mayo this September.
The Westport Festival of Chamber Music runs from September 11 to 13, and will see Irish and international musicians and soprano Sylvia O'Brien come together to provide three days of soaring, atmospheric chamber music in some of Westport's most historic buildings.
The festival is now in its third year and this year is sponsored by Nephin Whiskey.
Dr Paul Davis, managing director of Nephin Whiskey, said the company is delighted to be associated with the festival.
“These days people can instantly download an mp3 file of any classical music piece, but we still value the authenticity of watching a live performance given by incredibly talented musicians, who have practised their art for decades, and we understand the importance of passing this gift onto future generations,” he said.
“In the same way, Nephin is creating an authentic whiskey to compete in an industry dominated by the mass produced brands of the multinational corporations. We are growing barley locally, reviving the traditions of peating malt, using local turf, and passing the dying art of coopering onto the next generation.
“We’re delighted to be involved in the Westport Festival and will continue to support classical and traditional music in Mayo in the coming years.”
Recitals and concerts for the Westport Festival of Chamber Music will take place in Westport House, Holy Trinity Church and Westport Town Hall on September 11, 12 and 13.
For more information and to purchase tickets, which are already selling fast, visit www.classicallinks.ie
