Irish Chamber Orchestra Information

Resident at the University of Limerick, the Irish Chamber Orchestra comprises of 22 world-class musicians and is Ireland’s most dynamic ensemble, combining high quality performances with an expansive artistic vision. Founded in 1970 and funded by The Arts Council of Ireland/An Chomhairle Ealaíon, the Irish Chamber Orchestra mixes traditional repertoire with new commissions and collaborates with everyone from DJs to dance companies. Each year, the orchestra presents concert seasons in Limerick and Dublin, embarks on two national tours, and makes a series of prestigious international appearances supported by Culture Ireland. The driving force behind the orchestra’s recent success is its Principal Conductor/Artistic Partner, Jörg Widmann, a composer, conductor and clarinettist whose irrepressible energy and pursuit of excellence has enabled the Irish Chamber Orchestra to expand its horizons, attracting outstanding international soloists including Thomas Zehetmair, Brett Dean, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Tabea Zimmermann, Igor Levit, and Elisabeth Leonskaja. Widmann’s enthusiasm and commitment is matched by the orchestra itself, led by the ebullient Katherine Hunka. In addition to being one of Ireland’s greatest cultural ambassadors, the Irish Chamber Orchestra is also a charitable organisation. At the heart of ICO’s vision is the belief that music is for everyone. Its ground breaking Community Outreach programmes, Sing Out with Strings and the Irish Chamber Orchestra Youth Orchestra provide free music education to children and young people living in the regeneration areas of Limerick. These life enhancing programmes offer opportunities for young people, developing key life skills, and providing tangible long-term benefits for participants, their families and the wider community. To find out about corporate sponsorship opportunities and ways to support ICO’s Community Outreach programmes, contact Joanne Tierney, Development Manager on 087 6413060 or email Joanne.Tierney@ul.