'Amazing, genre-defying repertoire': Grammy winner to headline Limerick gala concert

GRAMMY and Pulitzer Prize-winning artist Rhiannon Giddens will perform at the Limerick School of Music’s third annual Gala Concert in May. 

Rhiannon notably played banjo and viola on the 2024 mega-hit Texas Hold' Em by Beyoncé.

The popular Gala Concert will take place at St Mary's Cathedral in Limerick city on May 22.

The programme will also include music by Mozart, Chopin, and a performance of the Linen and Lace Flute concerto by celebrated LSOM alumnus Bill Whelan, with soloists and full orchestra drawn from staff and past pupils of the school.

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Other pieces on the programme include a performance of Vaughan-William's masterpiece The Lark Ascending twinned with a new arrangement of The Lark in the Clear Air, performed by acting Principal Anna Jane Ryan. There will also be an Irish premiere of the Elmer Bernstein Guitar concerto.

Assistant Principal at Limerick School of Music, John O'Shea commented: “The Gala is a great event and we're very proud of it. It's a full orchestral concert and the ensemble is entirely made up of staff and alumni of the school. We're in our third year now and it's our biggest concert to date.”

Speaking about the highlight of the upcoming event, Mr O'Shea said: “This year the main event is a performance by Limerick resident Rhiannon Giddens. Rhiannon will be performing an Aria from her Pulitzer-Prize winning Opera Omar, as well as a number of other pieces from her amazing, genre-defying repertoire... She played banjo and viola on the 2024 mega-hit Texas Hold' Em by Beyoncé.” 

“It is a lovely evening, and the whole school community gets involved. The money raised all goes towards the LSOM Alumni & Friends fund which provides access to music students across Limerick, assisting with instrument purchase, travel, tuition fees and all other expenses to help achieve the highest possible standard of music education,” added Mr O'Shea.

Assistant Principal and Flute Teacher, Oisín McGill will be performing Bill Whelan's Linen and Lace Concerto, which was written as an homage to the two cities of Limerick and Belfast for Sir James Galway.

Each ticket will also include a sparkling prosecco and canapé reception.

Tickets cost €50 and are available from limerickschoolofmusic.ie.