Irish Chamber Orchestra celebrates special 30th anniversary in Limerick

THIS OCTOBER, the Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) marks 30 years at the University of Limerick with a one-of-a-kind anniversary concert.

They are performing on Saturday October 18 at University Concert Hall, for an evening of music with Micheál Ó Súilleabháin’s playful and witty Must Be More Crispy, featuring special guests Mel Mercier on percussion and Niall Vallely on concertina.

For the very first time, ICO Youth joins forces with the orchestra and Henning Kraggerud to perform his Little Suite in Old Style, before sweeping concert goers into Piazzolla’s hauntingly beautiful Oblivion and Sam Perkin’s dazzling Inspirit.

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Since relocating to Limerick in 1995, ICO is recognized as Ireland’s most adventurous ensembles, touring the world, recording widely, and showcasing Irish creativity on the global stage.

At the same time, they have stayed deeply rooted in their city, bringing music into schools and communities through free education programmes that place instruments, tuition, and inspiration directly into young hands.

CEO of the Irish Chamber Orchestra, Gerry Keenan said “Limerick is at the heart of everything we do. It’s where our musicians work, and it’s where our belief that music is for everyone comes to life - in schools, on stage, and in the community.

“As we celebrate thirty years here, we’re excited not just to look back, but to look forward, sharing the joy of music with audiences and communities near and far,” said Gerry.