58th Cork International Choral Festival 2012 by Cork International Choral Festival

Booking Information Booking for the 58th Cork International Choral Festival can be done through the Box Office of the Everyman Palace Theatre from February 2012. ONLINE:

www.everymanpalace.com By phone:

021 4501673 Lines Open: • Mon-Fri: 12pm - 7.30pm (5pm on non-performance nights) • Saturdays: 2pm - 7.30pm (5pm on non-performance nights) • Sundays & Bank Holidays: 4pm - 7.30pm (performance days only) Please note that all internet and telephone bookings are subject to a handling fee of ¤2.25 per ticket.

In Person:

Everyman Palace Theatre, 15 MacCurtain Street, Cork • Concessions (O.A.P., Students, U.E.): For all evening Concerts: 15% off marked price* • Group Rates (applicable to groups of 10 persons or more): 15% off marked price* • Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children / Daytime competition only): ¤15.00 * Please note that concessions / group rates do not apply to An Evening with The King’s Singers, Thursday 3rd May, Cork Opera House.

For any further queries regarding ticketing, please contact info@corkchoral.ie

Cork International Choral Festival Civic Trust House, 50 Pope’s Quay, Cork Tel: 021 4215125 / Fax: 021 4215192 Email: info@corkchoral.ie Web: www.corkchoral.ie Cover photo: Cian Daly

Lord Mayor’s Foreword John Fitzpatrick’s Introduction INDEX

Gala Concerts Mozart • Requiem The King’s Singers National Chamber Choir of Ireland Evocations: The Gentlemen Singers Fleischmann International Trophy Competition – Sessions 1 & 2 Closing Gala Concert

07 13 17 21 25/27 29

Fringe Concerts Shandon Sunrise Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School Choirs at Christchurch I Music For Two Pianos Choirs at Christchurch II South Wind Madrigal ‘75 Vocal Ensemble The Gentlemen Singers The Clerks Choral of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal

32 32 33 33 34 34 35 35 37

PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

Church Interchange & Visits

National Competitions National Competition for Schools: Section 1 Primary Schools National Competition for Schools: Section 3 Mixed Voice Post-Primary Schools National Competition for Schools: Section 2 Equal Voice Post-Primary Schools Premier National Competitions National Open Competition & National Competition for Youth Choirs National Competition for Light, Jazz & Popular Music National Competition for Church Music

41 41 42/43 44 45 47 49

Festival Awards

Education 44th Seminar on New Choral Music The Seán Ó Riada Competition The Big Sing Conductors Masterclass School Concerts 15th Composers in the Classroom Seminar

52 54 55 56 56 57

Biographies Adjudicators: International Adjudicators: Schools Artists Fleischmann International Trophy Competition Choirs Non-competitive Groups Performing Groups

58 59 60 61 67 69

Festival Sponsors & organisers

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DAY BY DAY

84/85

FESTIVAL FEATURES

FESTIVAL MAP

87 3

Lord Mayor’s Foreword A dhaoine úaisle, cuirim fáilte róimh go léir chuig Féile Idirnáisiúnta na gCór Chorcaí 2012. Over the past 58 years the Cork International Choral Festival developed into one of Europe’s premier international choral festivals and is noted for its high competitive standards, excellent organisation, and the friendliness of its welcome. Hundreds of international singers make the trip to Cork this year to join the many school, youth, and adult choirs from all over Ireland in participating in the festival. The Festival also prides itself with an outstanding relation with the tourism sector; teaming up with numerous hotels, restaurants, pubs and visitor attractions in Cork City and County. What sets the Cork International Choral Festival apart, and has for over half a century, is the selfless and tireless 4

work of its volunteers, this year, as in others, numbering more than 150 people, some of whom have been involved with the festival for all of that time. The Festival is rooted in Cork and in its psyche. Any visitor to Cork will tell you that the welcome they have received and the generosity of their hosts makes Cork International Choral Festival much more than an event, it makes it an experience. I look forward as I’m sure you all do to this year’s events and congratulate the organisers who every year manage to surpass themselves with the range, quality and variety of events. Go raibh maith agaibh. Cllr. Terry Shannon Lord Mayor of Cork

Introduction John Fitzpatrick

Artistic and Festival Director

This year marks the 58th edition of the Cork International Choral Festival. This Festival Programme details the wide range of its activities. From my direct personal knowledge and experience of other European choral festivals, Cork bears comparison with the best. Very few festivals integrate the range of feature concerts, fringe concerts, outreach performances, competitive and non-competitive participation by international choirs, seminar on new choral music, national adult and school competitions, educational activities, church performances, and public choral interaction, as we do. What we present, and the manner in which we present it, is specific to Cork, of an extremely high standard, and of major national and international importance. In the past year it is important to note that the full collection of scores from 1962 to the present which were commissioned for the Festival’s Seminar and premiered at the festival, was made available to the Cork City Library to ensure their accessibility to scholars, musicians, and music lovers alike. The library has undertaken their digitisation and it is envisaged that they will soon be available in digital format on the web. This collection of some 130 scores is of major importance in the history of the development of Irish choral music. The fact that 33 entries were received from Irish composers for this year’s Sean Ó Riada Composition Competition further illustrates the important role this festival plays in the creation of new work. To maintain a festival of this scale is no easy task. I wish to acknowledge the major financial support of the Arts

Council, Cork City Council, and Fáilte Ireland, and to Goethe-Institut Irland, Indaver Ireland, and our other sponsors who continue to support us at a time when we need all the financial support we can raise to maintain our vision. 25% of our annual budget has traditionally come from sponsorship. This amount has fallen from ¤52,500 in 2009 to ¤15,000 in the present year. We are realistic in knowing that this dramatic reduction has major implications for our future ability to maintain the festival at its present high artistic and organisational levels and we look to increased support from our corporate sector to ensure our future. Despite the present national economic situation ours is a message of hope. What we present over these five days is high quality, and inclusive, is important to the individual lives of participants and audiences, fosters a wider understanding of different nations and cultures, and ultimately benefits the society in which we live in a positive way. I thank all our collaborators, both organisational and venues, for their support in making this festival such a broad-based one. Concerts are no longer confined to just the City Hall but take place in many other excellent venues in the city thus allowing the festival to integrate more fully with our developing audience base. I especially welcome the growing interest shown by our national choral institutions to present major orchestral and choral works at the Festival. Finally, I particularly thank our excellent administration team, the members of the Festival’s Boards, and the committed involvement of all the volunteers. You all make my job so much easier. Your contribution is central to our success.

GALA CONCERTS Cork International Choral Festival and Goethe-Institut Irland present

Mozart • Requiem (K.626)

Virginia Kerr Soprano Sharon Carty Alto Eamonn Mulhall Tenor Philip O’Reilly Bass Goethe-Institut Choir Orchestra of St. Cecilia Conductor John Dexter

wednesday 2 May 2012 8pm. Cork city hall Presenter: Evelyn Grant Tickets: ¤30/¤20/¤15 Subject to booking fee. Pre-concert music provided by The Band of the 1 Southern Brigade at 7.30pm, Conductor: Capt. Brian Prendergast 7

GALA CONCERTS Programme

Magnificat in B flat major

Giovanni Battista Pergolesi (1710 - 1736) attributed to Francesco Durante (1684 -1755)

I. Magnificat II. Et misericordia III. Deposuit potentes IV. Suscepit Israel V. Sicut locutus est VI. Sicut erat in principio

Suite in D for trumpet, strings and basso continuo George Frideric Handel (1685 - 1759)

I. Overture II. Gigue III. Aire (Menuetto) IV. March (Bourrée) V. March Solo Trumpet: Niall O’Sullivan Interval

Requiem in D minor (K.626) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 -1791)

I. Introitus: Requiem aeternam (choir with soprano solo) II. Kyrie (choir) III. Sequentia: Dies irae (choir) Tuba mirum (solo quartet) Rex tremendae majestatis (choir) Recordare, Jesu pie (solo quartet) Confutatis maledictis (choir) Lacrimosa dies illa (choir) IV. Offertorium: Domine Jesu Christe (choir with solo quartet) Versus: Hostias et preces (choir) V. Sanctus & Benedictus: Sanctus (choir) Benedictus (solo quartet and choir) VI. Agnus Dei (choir) VII. Communio: Lux aeterna (soprano solo and choir)

Suite in D George Frideric Handel’s Trumpet Suite in D major was first published in 1733 by Jonathan Johnson as “The Famous Water Peice [sic] Compos’d by Mr. Handel”. Three movements have been adapted from known works by Handel, the first movement taken from Water Music. It is unclear whether the remaining movements were written by the composer.

Requiem in D minor (K.626) The final work of a tragically short life, Mozart was in fact still working on the Requiem, a setting of the Latin Mass for the dead, on the night he died - December 5, 1791. Recognizing that he was terminally ill, Mozart left elaborate instructions according to which the work was later completed by his pupil Franz Xaver Süßmayr. So exact were these instructions, that it’s possible to identify Mozart’s work on the composition to the exact bar. While it is now known that a servant of Count WalseggStuppach initiated the contract, Mozart was unaware of the identity of the mysterious patron who had commissioned the piece. Succumbing to delusions about his failing health, he became increasingly convinced that this would become his own funeral music. Of the work’s twelve movements, Mozart managed only to complete the Kyrie in its entirety. He had written vocal parts and a figured bass line (a kind of harmonic shorthand) for much of the other sections, leaving only the orchestration, his intention for which he left clearly indicated in his instructions. These movements may therefore be regarded as the work of the master. For reasons unknown, Mozart postponed writing the seventh movement, the Lacrimosa, until after writing movements eight and nine, but managed only the first eight bars before death finally overtook him. He left a number of other fragments, such as the trombone solo at the opening of the Tuba Mirum. It was left to Süßmayr to complete the Lacrimosa, as well as compose the last three movements in their entirety.

Magnificat in B flat major

Goethe-Institut Choir

While this famed piece is generally attributed to important 18th century composer Francesco Durante, many scholars believe that it was in fact written by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, Durante’s talented pupil. A composer of much sacred and instrumental work, Francesco Durante composed two versions of his Magnificat in B flat major – the first a 4-part version that will be performed this evening, and the second a more elaborate 5-part version featuring two sopranos.

The Goethe-Institut Choir comprises a refreshing mix of singers of all ages and many nationalities. Founded in 1965, the choir was directed until 1998 by the late Cáit Cooper. Renowned conductor John Dexter has since taken over the role and the choir has continued to build on its high reputation. Playing a vital and vibrant role in Dublin’s cultural life, the choir’s performance schedule includes at least three concerts per year, in addition to special events such as the Carmichael Centre’s Good

GALA CONCERTS Friday concert held in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin. The choir has performed both nationally and internationally and has presented concerts in Belgium, Italy, Germany and Austria. Programmes have included works by composers such as Vittoria, Schütz, Monteverdi, Bach, Handel and Beethoven. A significant feature of performances has been the inclusion of the work of Irish composers, including Brian Boydell and Seoirse Bodley. Photo: Hugh Chaloner

www.goetheinstitutchoir.ie

Orchestra of St. Cecilia Formed in 1995, the Orchestra of St. Cecilia is drawn from the finest of Dublin’s professional musicians. Having garnered a notable reputation for the excellent quality of its performances, the orchestra has firmly established itself within Irish musical life, particularly by way of its ten year Bach Cantata project in which all two hundred of Bach’s church cantatas were performed. In addition to performing throughout the country, the Orchestra presents a regular series of concerts in association with the National Concert Hall in Dublin. Highlights have included the complete Mozart Piano Concertos with Hugh Tinney, the complete Beethoven Symphonies and Piano Concertos conducted and performed by Barry Douglas, and an outstanding symphony series conducted by Sir Neville Marriner. The Orchestra’s current project is the performance of all 108 symphonies by the great Austrian composer Franz Joseph Haydn, the second series of which take place during April and May 2012 in the Newman University Church, Dublin. www.orchestrastcecilia.ie

John Dexter Conductor In addition to conducting the Goethe-Institut Choir, John Dexter is Chorus Master of Dublin County Choir and Music Teacher in St Patrick’s Cathedral Grammar School. An Organ Scholar in Jesus College, Oxford, and at St Paul’s Cathedral London, John learnt his trade through accompanying and singing in choirs. From 1977 to 2001 he was Organist and Master of the Choristers in St Patrick’s Cathedral and is now organist in Whitechurch Parish Church, Dublin. John has worked as rehearsal accompanist for many internationally recognised choral ensembles such as the BBC Singers, the Monteverdi Choir and London Philharmonic Choir. He has sung with Collegium Musicum, the Proteus Choir and in 2010 John sang with the London Symphony Chorus, both in a Royal Albert Hall “Prom” and in the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Virginia Kerr Soprano Virginia Kerr is one of Ireland’s most distinguished sopranos, equally well known on the operatic stage, concert and oratorio platforms, and as a recitalist. Her career includes celebrated performances on the stages of the world’s leading opera houses and concert halls, and has taken her as far afield as Russia, the Far East, Mexico, North and South America. Virginia appears regularly as featured soloist with both the RTÉ National Symphony and RTÉ Concert Orchestras, as well as presenting a regular radio show on BBC Radio 2.

Sharon Carty Mezzo-soprano Winner of the inaugural RTÉ/ RAAP classical breakthrough bursary, mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty began her vocal studies at the Royal Irish Academy of Music before continuing in operatic studies at the University for Music and Performing Arts, Vienna. Sharon has performed as a soloist with numerous Irish and international choirs and orchestras, including the 9

GALA CONCERTS UCD Choral Scholars and the European Union Chamber Orchestra. Concert highlights for 2012 so far have included Ultimate Choral Classics with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Galway Baroque Singers, and Bach’s Matthäus-Passion with the Palestrina choir.

Eamonn Mulhall Tenor Trained at the Royal College of Music and the National Opera Studio in London, Eamonn Mulhall has sung with many of Ireland and Britain’s eminent choral societies. Highlights include Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall, Puccini’s Messa di Gloria with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and appearances with the Irish Baroque Orchestra and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. His repertoire spans from Bach’s Matthäus-Passion, through to Mendelssohn’s Elijah and Britten’s St. Nicholas. Eamonn’s many operatic engagements include the world première of James MacMillan’s Clemency at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. A committed recitalist he has given song recitals in Wexford, London, Scotland and Belgium.

Philip O’Reilly Bass

with leading conductors and orchestras around the world, from Edinburgh to Tokyo. He is a member of the vocal faculty at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin.

Niall O’Sullivan Trumpet After studies at DIT Conservatory and the Royal Irish Academy of Music, Niall O’Sullivan took up a scholarship at the Royal College of Music, London. During his time at the RCM, Niall developed his commercial trumpet playing and began jazz studies, also performing with the London Symphony Orchestra and BBC Symphony Orchestra. Niall has played and recorded with all of the professional orchestras in Ireland including the RTÉ Concert and the Irish Philharmonic Orchestras. He has performed throughout Europe, the US and China, and worked under several renowned conductors including Valeriy Gergiov. Niall has worked with many celebrated popular and jazz artists including Tom Jones, Dionne Warwick, and Amy Winehouse, and released a highly successful self-titled debut album in 2011.

Philip O’Reilly was born in Coventry, England. After an initial career as an engineer, Philip embarked upon vocal studies with Otokar Kraus, whilst working as a professional chorister in London. His operatic debut came with Glyndebourne Touring Opera in their acclaimed production of Rossini’s Cenerentola as Don Magnifico. Philip’s repertoire ranges from medieval to contemporary music, and he has performed and recorded

Photo: Hugh Chaloner

GALA CONCERTS Cork International Choral Festival and Cork Opera House present

An Evening with

The King’s Singers ‘The world’s most celebrated vocal ensemble’ Time Out, Beijing

THURSday 3 May 2012 8pm. Cork Opera House Presenter: Cian Cotter

Tickets: ¤42.50/¤35/¤25 Subject to booking fee.

Photo: Benjamin Ealovega

GALA CONCERTS Programme

Hard by a crystal fountain • Thomas Morley Weep, weep mine eyes • John Wilbye I love, alas, I love thee • Thomas Morley Draw on, sweet night • John Wilbye Now is the Month of Maying • Thomas Morley Never weather-beaten sail • C. H. H. Parry There is an old belief • C. H. H. Parry To a lady seen from the train • Stanley Wilson Quick! We have but a second • C. V. Stanford The bluebird • C. V. Stanford Nonsense Madrigals • György Ligeti Interval

Masterpiece • Paul Drayton Simple Gifts: A selection of pieces taken from two of the group’s latest discs, the Grammy® award-winning Simple Gifts and Swimming over London

One of the world’s most celebrated ensembles; The King’s Singers have amassed a portfolio of concerts, recordings, media and education work that spans the globe. Instantly recognisable for their spot-on intonation, impeccable vocal blend and delightful wit, The King’s Singers make a much anticipated return to Ireland as part of their 2012 world tour. From Charles Stanford and György Ligeti, to Billy Joel and Michael Bublé, a wonderful mix of classical and contemporary pieces will be presented in this unique Gala performance, showcasing the wide range of material for which the group is acclaimed.

In addition to their sold-out concerts worldwide, The King’s Singers share their artistry through numerous workshops and master classes, consistently championing the work of young composers. With phenomenal sales of sheet music recorded and over two million pieces of print currently in circulation, the ensemble’s arrangements are sung by schools, college choirs and professional groups around the world. Maintaining a deep commitment to new choral music, The King’s Singers have commissioned over two hundred works from a host of prominent contemporary composers including John Rutter, Toru Takemitsu, John Tavener and György Ligeti. Among other illustrious media accomplishments, The King’s Singers were invited to perform at the Winter Olympics in Utah in 2002, and also appeared in a televised BBC Proms Concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London, the DVD of which was awarded a Midem International Classical Award in January 2010. With a discography of well over 150 recordings the group have garnered many awards and significant critical acclaim. Their studio album Simple Gifts was awarded a Grammy® in 2009, and their 2010 release Swimming over London included a world premiere recording of Music for Vespers by Pachelbel with Charivari Agréable. The ensemble’s 2011 release with the renowned Concordia College Choir featured commissions by Eric Whitacre and Bob Chilcott. Alongside Cork Opera House, The King’s Singers will perform across the globe in some of the world’s most beautiful concert halls during the 2011-12 concert season including the National Concert Hall in Dublin, Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, and the Berlin Philharmonie. The Kings Singers are: David Hurley (countertenor), Timothy Wayne-Wright (countertenor), Paul Phoenix (tenor), Christopher Bruerton (baritone), Christopher Gabbitas (baritone), Jonathan Howard (bass). www.kingssingers.com

Photo: Benjamin Ealovega

GALA CONCERTS

The National Chamber Choir of Ireland An Irish Colloquy Conductor Paul Hillier

‘The heights of excellence ...subtle and imaginative’ Irish Examiner

Friday 4 May 2012 7.30pm. St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral Presenter: John Fitzpatrick

Tickets: ¤20 Subject to booking fee.

Photo: Alan Roche

GALA CONCERTS Programme

The Spring • Tarik O’Regan (1978 - ) The Deer’s Cry • Arvo Pärt (1935 - ) Five Irish Songs • Nicholas Maw (1935 - 2009) Two Unholy Haikus • Frank Corcoran (1944 - ) World Premiere Winner of the Seán Ó Riada Composition Competition

Pauper’s Lament / A Stealing Sadness Enda Bates (1979 - )

Long Time • Gerald Barry (1952 - ) World Premiere - Commissioned Work

chOirland • David Fennessy (1976 - ) It’s been five years since the Festival embarked on its collaboration with the country’s premier vocal ensemble, the National Chamber Choir of Ireland and 2012 sees the choir embark on another unique musical journey, specially developed for this year’s festival. Comprising Ireland’s top choral voices and under the direction of Conductor Paul Hillier, the National Chamber Choir will premiere a newly commissioned work entitled ‘Long Time’ by acclaimed composer Gerald Barry, as well as a performance of the winning composition from the 2012 Seán Ó Riada Competition. The National Chamber Choir, together with conductor Paul Hillier and the two composers, will once again copresent the Seminar on New Choral Music, at which the

new commissions will be analysed and discussed. The Seminar takes place on Saturday 5th May in CIT Cork School of Music. For more information on the Seminar on New Choral Music and the Seán Ó Riada Competition, as well as the composers and new commissions which will be performed at this concert, please turn to pages 52 & 54.

National Chamber Choir Of Ireland Artistic Director: Paul Hillier The National Chamber Choir of Ireland is the country’s flagship choral ensemble. Under the internationally celebrated and multi award winning choral conductor Paul Hillier as Artistic Director, the choir is known for its unique approach to programming and has gained a reputation for the high artistic quality of its performances. The National Chamber Choir remains a thriving force in a very active choral scene both at home and abroad. In addition to collaborating with numerous international guest conductors, the choir provides opportunities for and fosters the talents of young Irish conductors, and continues to support emerging talent on the conducting scene. Since its inception, the National Chamber Choir has made a significant contribution to the development of contemporary Irish choral music through its commitment to commissioning new work. The choir’s repertoire spans from early to contemporary music, regularly

GALA CONCERTS commissioning pioneering vocal work by composers such as Gerald Barry, Andrew Hamilton, Siobhán Cleary, Kevin Volans and Tarik O’Regan.

Paul Hillier

The National Chamber Choir of Ireland has a strong commitment to touring in Ireland and continues to develop its touring network in order to present high quality choral concerts to audiences all around the country. Internationally, the choir has toured extensively in Europe, Asia and South America and recently undertook its first US tour with the assistance of Culture Ireland as part of Imagine Ireland, a year of Irish Arts in America 2011.

Paul Hillier is from Dorset in England and studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. His career has embraced singing, conducting, and writing about music. Founding Director of the Hilliard Ensemble, and subsequently the Theatre of Voices, he has taught in the USA at both the University of California and Indiana University, where he was Director of the Early Music Institute. As a Conductor, Paul has worked with the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (2001-2007) and Ars Nova Copenhagen since 2003. His recordings, over a hundred CDs including seven solo recitals, have earned worldwide acclaim and won numerous prizes. Paul was awarded an OBE for services to choral music in 2006, as well as the Order of the White Star of Estonia, and a Grammy® for Best Choral Recording in 2007.

Recent appearances include performances at the White House on St. Patrick’s Day 2011, and CD releases in 2011 include One Day Fine on the Lyric fm label and Acallam na Senórach on the Harmonia Mundi label. The National Chamber Choir continues to foster relationships with other distinguished Irish performing ensembles such as the Crash Ensemble, the Irish Baroque Orchestra and the Irish Chamber Orchestra. The ensemble enjoys a unique relationship with Cork International Choral Festival with which it collaborates on an annual basis as Choir in Residence. Principal funding for the National Chamber Choir comes from the Arts Council / an Chomhairle Ealaíon and major in-kind support from Dublin City University, where the ensemble has been Choir in Residence since 1996. www.nationalchamberchoir.com

Artistic Director and Principal Conductor

Since taking up the position of Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the National Chamber Choir of Ireland in 2008, Paul has formed the Coro Casa da Musica in Portugal in addition to releasing several new recordings and publications. His books on Arvo Pärt and Steve Reich, together with numerous anthologies of choral music, are published by Oxford University Press.

Photo: Alan Roche

GALA CONCERTS

Evocations

with

The Gentlemen Singers Czech Republic

‘Boundless a cappella choral singing that is always flawless’ Steenwijker Courant Magazine, Netherlands

Friday 4 May 2012 10.30pm. Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne (North Cathedral) Presenter: Jane Fitzpatrick

Tickets: ¤15 Subject to booking fee.

Photo: Steffen Scheyhing Fotodesign

GALA CONCERTS Programme

Dona nobis pacem • Bob Chilcott (1955 - ) Da Pacem Domine • Arvo Pärt (1935 - ) Most Holy Mother of God • Arvo Pärt (1935 - ) Ave Maria (Angelus Domini) Franz Biebl (1906 - 2001)

Quatre petites prières de Saint François d’Assise • Francis Poulenc (1899 – 1963) I. Salut, Dame Sainte II. Tout puissant III. Seigneur, je vous en prie IV. O mes très chers frères

Nunc Dimittis • Mark van Platen (1955 - )

Arranged exclusively for The Gentlemen Singers

Viderunt omnes fines terrae Vít Zouhar (1966 - )

international success since its establishment in 2003, and currently stands as one of the most significant vocal ensembles to come from the Czech Republic in recent years. The concert will present a tranquil programme of contemporary classical works by a variety of European composers, from one-voiced compositions (influenced by Gregorian chant) to highly complex eight-voice arrangements. The Gentlemen Singers make their first appearance in Cork on the back of a successful year of touring and appearances at international competitions, notably taking the top prize for both the sacred and secular competitions for professional vocal ensembles at the Tolosa Choral Contest in Spain in October 2011. The group has performed extensively across four continents, and their concerts have been enjoyed by audiences from Albania, to South Korea, to the USA.

Arranged exclusively for The Gentlemen Singers

Missa Propria • Jan Jirásek (1955 - )

World premiere Cycle arranged exclusively for The Gentlemen Singers

Kyrie Eleison Gloria. Miserere. Gloria Credo. Agnus Dei Each year the Festival’s Evocations Gala Concert provides a unique opportunity for audiences to reflect and relax to a special programme of sacred and evocative music prepared by luminaries of the choral world. The 2012 Festival will see the emotive surroundings of North Cathedral play host to the internationally celebrated Czech ensemble, The Gentlemen Singers.

In addition, the ensemble together with Hradec Králové Philharmonic Orchestra host the concert series, Chamber Evenings with the Gentlemen Singers which have to date presented such formidable ensembles as Ensemble Amarcord (Germany), Banchieri Singers (Hungary), Talla Ensemble (Finland), Voces8 (England). Aside from their regular TV and radio appearances, the Gentlemen Singers’ successful recording career has seen them produce five CDs, including a live album and a Beatles Retrospective. The Gentlemen Singers are: Jakub Kubín (countertenor), Martin Ptáček (tenor), Lukáš Merkl (tenor), Radek Mach (tenor), Aleš Malý (baritone), Martin Struna (baritone), Richard Uhlíř (bass), and Václav Kovář (bass). www.gentlemensingers.cz

Comprising eight singers with their roots in the city of Hradec Králové, the ensemble has achieved much

Photo: Jan Hřebíček

GALA CONCERTS

Fleischmann International Trophy Competition Session 1

Saturday 5 May 3pm, Cork City Hall Presenter: Seán Ó Callanáin & Eva O’Mahony Admission: ¤5 afternoon only, ¤25/¤20/¤15 Combined entry to 3pm & 8pm sessions. Subject to booking fee.

Female Chamber Choir Divina

Yoav Choir

• Georgyi Sviridov (1915 - 1998)

• Alexander Gretchaninoff (1864 - 1956) La Rosa • Paul Ben-Haim (1897 - 1984) Ronu Na (Let’s Rejoice) • Alexander Argov (1914 - 1995) / Arr. Yehezkel Braun ( - 1922)

russia guest performance Conductor: Galina Igumnova Otchalivshaya Rus (Cast Of Russia), no.5

Ty Zapoy Mne Tu Pesnu (Sing me this song) • Georgyi Sviridov (1915 - 1998)

Milyi Moi Khorovod (My Sweet Round-Dance) • Trad. / Arr. A.Loginov

Cantemus Chamber Choir

Ireland Conductor: Tomás Ó Tuama Ein Kind sit uns geboren • Henrich Schütz (1585 - 1672) Les Fleurs et les Arbres (op. 68, 2) • Charles Camille Saint-Saëns (1835 - 1921) Illumina Oculos Meos • Aloys Fleischmann (1910 - 1992)

Double, Double Toil and Trouble (Four Shakespeare Songs, No.3.,1984) • Jaakko Mäntyjärvi (1963 - )

The Chanterelles

England Conductor: Shirley Court The Nightingale • Thomas Weelkes (1576 - 1623) My Love Dwelt In A Northern Land • Edward elgar (1821 - 1906) Gloria • Robert Latham (1950 - ) Bobby Shaftoe • Trad. / Arr. Douglas Coombes (1943 - )

The Park Singers

Ireland Conductor: Órla Gillan Der Ölbaum spricht • Knut Nystedt (1915 - ) O Magnum Mysterium • Ludovico Tommaso de Vittoria (1540 - 1608) / Arr. Victoria Glaser The Organ • Gerard Victory (1921 - 1995)

Israel guest performance Conductor: Shimon Levtov Missa Festiva op. 154 – Sanctus & Benedictus

Côr CF1

Wales Conductor: Eilir Owen Griffiths Cantate Domino • Claudio Monteverdi (1567 - 1643) Tebé poyém • Sergei Rachmaninov (1873 - 1943) Yr Ehedydd • Trad. / Arr. Brian Hughes (1955 - ) Rytmus • Ivan Hrušovskỳ (1927 - 2001)

Cois Cladaigh

Ireland Conductor: Brendan O’Connor Hodie Christus natus est • Giovanni Bassano (1558 - 1617) Ubi Caritas • Ola Gjeilo (1978 - ) Rejection • John Gardner (1917 - 2011) Angel • Liam Bates (1965 - )

Värmlands Nations Choir

Sweden Conductor: Sara Hjort Tota pulchra es • Ola Gjeilo (1978 - ) Sing Joyfully • William Byrd (1543 - 1623) Ja visst gör det ont • Gabriel Wilczkowski (1980 - )

Cork Irish Dance Company Ireland guest performance Senior section of the Kiely-Walsh Academy of Irish Dancing

interval

the park singers 25

GALA CONCERTS

Fleischmann International Trophy Competition Session 2

Saturday 5 May 8pm, Cork City Hall Presenter: Seán Ó Callanáin & Eva O’Mahony Admission: ¤25/¤20/¤15 Combined entry to 3pm & 8pm sessions. Subject to booking fee.

National Choir of the Festival guest performance

Ensemble vocal

Germany Conductor: Cornelius Trantow Effortlessly Love Flows • Aaron Jay Kernis (1960 - ) Deh, come invan sospiro • Carlo Gesualdo da Venosa (1566 - 1613) Der Falke • Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) A New Song of Love • Sven-David Sandström (1942 - )

Codetta

Ireland Conductor: Dónal Doherty Ave Maria • Tomás Luis de Victoria (1548 - 1611) Aigne Trí Chriathar • Lorcan Doherty Full Fathom Five • Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872 - 1958) The Battle of Jericho • Moses Hogan (1959 - 2003)

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club Philippines Conductor: Maria Lourdes Venida-Hermo Selig sind die Toten • Heinrich Schütz (1585 - 1672) Benedictio • Urmas Sisask (1960 - ) Koyu No Tebulul • T‘boli Folksong / Arr. Eudenice V. Palaruan (1968 - ) interval

Alma Choir

Usa guest performance Conductor: Will Nichols Song of the Birds • Clement Janequin (1485 - 1558) Witness • Negro Spiritual / Arr. Jack Halloran (1916 - 1997) Tell My Ma • Trad. / arr. Jon Washburn (1942 - )

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec

Slovenia Conductor: Primož Malavašič Kralj • Damijàn Močnik (1967 - ) O beata Trinitas, te invocamus Opus Muiscum III • Iacobus Handl-Gallus (1550 - 1591) Vuojnha Biegga • Jan Sandström (1954 - )

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School

Sweden Conductor: Björn Johansson Fair Phyllis I saw sitting • John Farmer (1560 - ) I thank You God for most this amazing day • Eric Whitacre (1970 - )

Slåttervisa, (Harvesting Song) • Trad. / Arr. Sraffan Lindberg

Hwa Chong Choir

Singapore Conductor: Lim Ai Hooi Tu Piangi, O Filli Mia • Gesualdo di Venosa (1566 - 1613) Cui Dong Cui • Shui Jiang Tian (1964 - ) As torrents in summer • Edward Elgar (1857 - 1934) Cantico de Celebracion • Leo Brouwer (1939 - )

Cork Irish Dance Company Ireland guest performance Senior section of the Kiely-Walsh Academy of Irish Dancing

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club 27

GALA CONCERTS

Closing Gala Sunday 6 May 8pm, Cork City Hall Presenter: Seán Ó Callanáin & Eva O’Mahony

Tickets: ¤30/¤20/¤15 Subject to booking fee.

Côr CF1

Wales Conductor: Eilir Owen Griffiths Y Tangnefeddwyr (The Peacemakers) • ERIC JONES Joshua Fit the Battle • MOSES HOGAN (1957 - 2003)

Cantemus Chamber Choir

Ireland Conductor: Tomás Ó Tuama The way you look tonight • JEROME KERN (1885 - 1945) / arr. JOHN RUTTER (1945 - )

Pseudo-yoik (Nonsense Words) • JAAKKO MÄNTYJÄRVI (1963 - )

Primorski Akademski Choir Vinko Vodopivec Slovenia Conductor: Primož Malavašič Domovini (To my homeland) • BENJAMIN IPAVEC (1829 - 1908) Žabe (Frog wedding) • VINKO VODOPIVEC (1878 - 1952)

Cois Cladaigh

Ireland Conductor: Brendan O’Connor The Three Plums • MATTHEW HARRIS (1956 - )

Ensemble vocal

Germany Conductor: Cornelius Trantow Vineta (op. 42, 2) • Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) Kein schöner Land (No country more beautiful) • Trad. / arr. WOLFRAM BUCHENBERG (1962 - )

The Park Singers

Ireland Conductor: Órla Gillan And So It Goes • BILLY JOEL (1949 - ) / arr. KIRBY SHAW (1941 - ) Kungala (A place to sing and shout) • STEPHEN LEEK (1959 - )

GALA CONCERTS Värmlands Nations Choir

Sweden Conductor: Sara Hjort Slängpolska efter Byss-Kalle (Sling polska after Byss-Kalle) • Trad. / arr. HANS GARDEMAR (1963 - ) El hambo • JAAKO MÄNTYJÄRVI (1963 - )

interval

Ceoltóiri Chairbre Ireland

Yoav Choir

Israel Conductor: Shimon Levtov Hava Nagila • Trad. / Arr. Daniel Factory Go forth O ye daughters of Zion, Song of Songs 3:11 • Yehezkel Bra’un

The Chanterelles

England Conductor: Shirley Court Ching A Ring Chaw • AARON COPLAND (1900 - 1990) Song of Love • PHILIP LANE (1950 - )

Hwa Chong Choir

Singapore Conductor: Lim Ai Hooi Bunga Sayang • DICK LEE (1956 - ) / arr. CHAN ERN THENG Nouse Lauluni • Trad. / Arr. SOILA SARIOLA (1977 - )

Codetta

Ireland Conductor: Dónal Doherty Tourdion • Trad. / Arr. MIKE BREWER (1945 - ) Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) • BILLY JOEL (1949 - )

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club Philippines Conductor: Maria Lourdes Venida-Hermo Paruparong Bukid (Field Butterfly)

• Trad. / Arr. GEORGE HERNANDEZ (1944 - ) I Believe • Trad. / ERIC LEVI (1955 - ) / arr. CARLO MANUEL SERRANO (1987- )

FRINGE CONCERTS Tuesday 1 May 6am, Church of St. Anne (Shandon Bells)

Thursday 3 May 11am, The Masonic Hall, Tuckey St.

Admission: Free of charge*

Admission: Free of charge

featuring

Cathal Ó Baoill & Cathal Óg

co. down

and

Voci Nuove

sweden cork

Shandon Sunrise Shandon Bells will once again host a dawn chorus this May Day, welcoming the first day of summer in our Shandon Sunrise event. At 06.02, sunrise on Tuesday 1st May, the dawn will be met with a chorus of voices singing from the bell tower of the iconic Church of St. Anne, Shandon. This unique performance has become a much loved annual event and marks the ancient celebration of the first day of summer. Those interested in attending are advised to arrive at 5.50am. *Please note that due to space constraints, public will not be admitted to the bell tower itself. However, the performance can be enjoyed from below as well as at the Service that follows.

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School

This young, vibrant choir bring their spirited, Scandinavian tones to the evocative surroundings of one city’s most historic buildings, The Masonic Hall. The building on Tuckey Street has served as the Provincial Grand Lodge of the Munster Freemasons since 1884, and its internal design has remained true to its origins in its layout and historic furnishings. Founded in 1996 by current Choir Director, Björn Johansson, Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School performs a wide a cappella repertoire from many languages and countries, moving from renaissance and classical styles through to pop, contemporary and jazz arrangements. The choir will also compete in this year’s Fleischmann International Trophy Competition in what will be their third visit to the Festival.

FRINGE CONCERTS Thursday 3 May 1.10pm, Triskel Christchurch, South Main St.

Thursday 3 May 1.10pm, Curtis Auditorium, CIT Cork School of Music

Admission: Free of charge

In association with Triskel Christchurch

In association with CIT Cork School of Music

Choirs at Christchurch

Music for Two Pianos

featuring

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec Slovenia

Teresa Trevisan and Flavio Zaccaria Trieste, Italy

and

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club The Philippines Two top international choirs bring their serene sounds to the beautiful setting of Triskel Christchurch in the first of two very special lunchtime performances. Launched last year after a long period of restoration and redevelopment, the venue has been transformed into one of the city’s top cultural and performance spaces.

programme Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec:

Ave Maria • VINKO VODOPIVEC (1878 - 1952) Totus Tuus • AMBROŽ ČOPI (1973 - ) O Beata Trinitas • IACOBUS GALLUS (1550 - 1591) Se Ninje Blagoslovite Gospoda • IPOLOIT IVANOV Ninje Otpuschayeshi • ALEXANDER GRETCHANINOFF (1864 - 1956) Priidite, Poklonimsia • SERGEI RACHMANINOFF (1873 - 1943) Bogoroditse Devo • SERGEI RACHMANINOFF (1873 - 1943) Slava…Yedinorodiy Sine • ALEXANDER GRETCHANINOFF (1864 - 1956) Njest Svjat • STEVAN STOJANOVIČ MOKRANJAC (1856 - 1914) For a full choir biography, please turn to page 63

This piano duo who debuted at the Interfest of Bitola in Macedonia in 2002, choose to combine their personal interests and experiences in dealing with the difficulties of this particularly delicate ensemble. The Bitola concert presented a rare arrangement of Bach Brandenburg Concertos for piano duet by Max Reger, as revised by Filippo Trevisan. Trevisan and Zaccaria recorded a CD devoted to unpublished pieces by the composer in 2005, and in 2006 were awarded an Honorary Mention at the Web Concert Hall Competition for their recording of Reger’s Suite op.16. Recent piano masterclasses presented by the ensemble have been held at the Conservatorio Superior de Musica “Manuel Massotti Littel” in Murcia, Spain in 2008, the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre in Vilnius in 2010, and in 2011 at the Yasar University of Izmir.

programme En blanc et noir • Debussy I. Avec emportement II. Lent. Sombre III. Scherzando

Nocturnes • Debussy I. Nuages II. Fêtes

Danses simphoniques op.45 • Rachmaninoff Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club:

I. Non allegro II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse) III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace - Lento assai • Come prima - Allegro vivace

Silence My Soul • FRANCISCO F. FELICIANO (1941 - ) Caritas et Amor • Z. RANDALL STROOPE (1953 - ) De Profundis (Op. 5, No. 5) • JOHN AUGUST PAMINTUAN (1972 - ) Caturog Na, Nonoy • Trad. / arr. GEORGE HERNANDEZ (1953 - ) Paruparong Bukid • Trad. / arr. GEORGE HERNANDEZ (1953 - ) Danny Boy (Londonderry Air) • FREDERIC WEATHERLY (1848 - 1929), PETER KNIGHT (1917 - 1985) & PHILIP LAWSON (1957 - ) For a full choir biography, please turn to page 61

FRINGE CONCERTS friday 4 May 1.10pm, Triskel Christchurch, South Main St.

friday 4 May 1.10pm, Curtis Auditorium CIT Cork School of Music

Admission: Free of charge

In association with Triskel Christchurch

In association with CIT Cork School of Music

Choirs at Christchurch

South Wind

Ensemble vocal

featuring Combined CSM Wind Ensemble & The Band of the 1 Southern Brigade

featuring

Germany

and

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School Sweden In the second of our special lunchtime performances, two more leading international choirs bring their uplifting tones to the beautiful setting of Triskel Christchurch. Launched last year after a long period of restoration and redevelopment, the venue has been transformed into one of the city’s top cultural and performance spaces.

programme Ensemble vocal:

Effortlessly Love Flows (No. 1 from Ecstatic Meditations) Text: Mechthild of Magdeburg • AARON JAY KERNIS (1960 - )

Der Falke (op. 93a, 5) (The falcon) • JOHANNES BRAHMS (1833 - 1897) Deh, come invan sospiro (Sixth Madrigal Book – 1611) (Ah, how I sigh in vain) • CARLO GESUALDO DA VENOSA (1566 - 1613)

A new song of love (Text: Song of Solomon) • SVEN-DAVID SANDSTRÖM (1942 - )

Ubi caritas et amor (Where charity and love are, God is there) • MORTEN LAURIDSEN (1943 - ) For a full choir biography, please turn to page 63

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska Highschool:

Glaspolska • Trad. Folk ALE MÖLLER (1951 - ) Fair Phyllis • JOHN FARMER (c.1570 - c.1601) Dieu! qu’il la fait bon regarder! • CLAUDE DEBUSSY (1862 - 1918) God Only Knows • BRIAN WILSON (1942 - ) / arr. THOMAS BERGQUIST Bumble Bee • ANDERS EDENROTH (1962 - ) Kung Liljekonvalje • DAVID WIKANDER (1884 - 1955) Sommarpsalm • WALDEMAR ÅHLÉN (1894 - 1982) For a full choir biography, please turn to page 65

Conductors: Captain Brian Prendergast & John O’Connor Soloists: Rachel Clancy Saxophone & Robert O’Brien Tuba Sixty-five musicians and two excellent young soloists perform in this partnership between the CIT Cork School of Music and the Band of the 1 Southern Brigade. The programme including two concerti, the Tuba Concerto by Philip Sparke and the Alto Saxophone Concerto by Mike Mower, will provide an exhilarating hour of music in the first-class Curtis Auditorium of the CIT Cork School of Music. The Army Band has long been a valued career path for graduates of the CSM’s BMus programme and many army musicians have also been distinguished teachers at the school. This project gives the students an opportunity to experience at first hand the life of an Army musician and perform alongside professionals in their chosen field.

FRINGE CONCERTS saturday 5 May 1.30pm, Curtis Auditorium, CIT Cork School of Music

saturday 5 May 6pm, Ballyferriter Church, Ballyferriter, Co. Kerry

Admission: ¤10/¤7

In association with Féile Na Bealtaine

In association with CIT Cork School of Music

The Gentlemen Singers

Madrigal ’75 Vocal Ensemble

Czech Republic Ireland

Director: James Taylor Madrigal ’75 is a vocal ensemble based in Cork City with a repertoire ranging from early to modern music, both sacred and secular. Founded in 1975 by university students, the choir now comprises a diverse combination of singers from all walks of life. Madrigal ’75 has developed a reputation as a vocal ensemble of great skill and beauty, performing repertoire from as early as the 14th century right through to contemporary choral works including first performances of new commissions. In 2005 Madrigal ’75 was a prominent participant in the Cork European Capital of Culture events, touring France as cultural ambassadors for the city. Madrigal ’75 is also the winner of the Carols for Christmas 2006 competition on RTÉ Lyric FM. Other successes include Best Choir at the Montreux Festival, several Best Performances and First Prize awards at successive Cork International Choral Festivals, and the Irish Choir of the Year award.

In addition to their late night concert in Cork on Friday 4th of May (see page 21), the Gentlemen Singers will also bring their talents to the beautiful surroundings of Ballyferriter Church in Dingle as part of the Féile Na Bealtaine Festival. Travelling to the rugged west coast of Ireland, the ensemble will present a tranquil programme of contemporary classical works by a variety of European composers, from one-voiced compositions (influenced by Gregorian chant) to highly complex eight-voice arrangements. The programme will be the same as performed by The Gentlemen Singers at the Festival’s Evocations Gala. Féile na Bealtaine is an arts festival that takes place on the Dingle peninsula every year. This year will see festival celebrate their 18th edition under the theme ‘Exploration’. For more information please visit www. feilenabealtaine.ie

The choir has performed with several of Ireland’s leading ensembles, including the RTÉ Vanbrugh String Quartet and the Orchestra of St Cecilia. In 2008 and 2011 respectively, the choir presented the closing and opening concerts of the prestigious East Cork Early Music Festival. Current plans include trips to Northern Italy, Paris and Edinburgh. Since January 2007, Madrigal ’75 has been directed by James Taylor, organist and harpsichordist, who, having held posts in the UK, New Zealand and Canada, now lectures at CIT Cork School of Music and is also Assistant Director of Music at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork. This lunchtime concert will include works by amongst others Juan De Lienas, Salamone Rossi, Stephen Chatman and Eric Whitacre.

Photo: Jan Hřebíček

FRINGE CONCERTS sunday 6 May 6pm, Church of St. Anne, Shandon Admission: Free of charge

The Clerks Choral of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal sings

The Office of Compline in plainsong with Drop, Drop Slow Tears • ORLANDO GIBBONS (1659 - 1695) Nunc Dimittis • ORLANDO GIBBONS (1659 - 1695) (from the Short Service)

The College of Clerks Choral in Youghal is an ancient institution, founded in 1464 by Thomas FitzGerald, Earl of Desmond. The College originally consisted of eight fellows and eight singing clerks – a choral foundation which was dissolved and reinstated a number of times. Finally, a large parish choir, the previous inheritor of this long choral tradition, folded up in the 1970s and the organ that stood in the High Chancel was removed some time later. However, in 2006, the Clerks Choral was reinstated as a choir to sing regularly in this ancient church. In 2007 a magnificent organ, built originally in the seventeenth century and re-built in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, was acquired from a closed church in City of Bristol and placed at the head of the Great Nave in the Collegiate Church. The Clerks Choral gives secular recitals and RTÉ live broadcasts, and is available to sing at church events and weddings. Compline is the last church service of the day; it is a contemplative office, with an emphasis on spiritual peace.

PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

Choral Trail

All choral trail performances are free*

Location

Time

Visiting Choir

thursday 3 may CORK CITY LIBRARY, Grand Parade

11.30am

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club the philippines

AIB BANK, South Mall

2.30pm

Yoav Choir

DOUGLAS LIBRARY

3pm

Hwa Chong Choir

BLARNEY CASTLE*

5pm

Yoav Choir

Lewis GLUCKSMAN GALLERY, UCC

6pm

V盲rmlands Nations Choir

CIT BLACKROCK CASTLE OBSERVATORY

2.30pm

Alma Choir

usa

CORK CITY LIBRARY, Grand Parade

2.30pm

Yoav Choir

Israel

CORK VISION CENTRE, North Main St.

4pm

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec

BODEGA RESTAURANT, Cornmarket St.

5pm

Ensemble vocal

1-6pm

1pm: Portadown Male Voice Choir

Israel singapore

Israel sweden

friday 4 may

slovenia

germany

saturday 5 may THE ELECTRIC, South Mall

ireland

3pm: 4 in a Bar

6pm: 4 in a Bar

BISHOPSTOWN LIBRARY

2.30pm

Alma Choir

CLARION HOTEL: Afternoons in the Atrium

2-5.30pm

Various local, national and international choirs including

Carrigaline Singers, Coole Kidz,

Unison Choir, Voices of Cork, Clermont Chorale,

Inver Ladies, Portadown Male Voice Choir and others.

sunday 6 may CLARION HOTEL: Afternoons in the Atrium

2-5.30pm

Various local, national and international choirs including

The Chanterelles, Codetta, C么r CF1, Cois Cladaigh,

QV Quartet, Portadown Ladies Choir, C贸r Loch Lao,

C贸r Geal and others.

*Please note that while the performances are free of cost, regular entry fees apply for entry to Blarney Castle. 38

CHURCH INTERCHANGE & VISITS

Church Interchange Church

Mass Time

Visiting Choir

6pm

Church of the Resurrection, Farranree

Church of Christ the King, Turners Cross

10am

Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne

Church of the Holy Cross, Mahon

10am

St. Vincent’s Church, Sundays Well

Church of the Resurrection, Farranree

10.30am

Church of Christ the King, Turners Cross

Way of the Cross, Togher

11am

St. Patrick’s Church, Lower Road

Holy Trinity Church, Fr. Matthew Quay

11am

Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield/Grange

St. Columba’s Church, Douglas

11am

Our Lady’s Crowned Church, Mayfield

St. Michael’s Church, Blackrock

11am

St. Francis Church, Liberty Street

St. Oliver’s Church, Ballyvolane

11am

Glounthaune Church

St. Vincent’s Church, Sundays Well

11am

The Church of the Annunciation, Blackpool

Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne

11.30am

St. Columba’s Church, Douglas

Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield/Grange 11.30am

St. Oliver’s Church, Ballyvolane

Church of the Real Presence, Curraheen Road 11.30am

Church of the Holy Cross, Mahon

Glounthaune Church

12pm

St. Michael’s Church, Blackrock

Our Lady’s Crowned Church, Mayfield

12pm

Church of the Real Presence, Curraheen Road

St. Francis Church, Liberty Street

12pm

Church of the Way of the Cross, Togher

St. Patrick’s Church, Lower Road

12pm

St. Joseph’s SMA Church, Wilton

The Church of the Annunciation, Blackpool

12pm

Holy Trinity Church, Fr. Matthew Quay

Mass Time

Visiting Choir

saturday 28 April St. Joseph’s SMA Church, Wilton

sunday 29 April

Church Visits

Church

saturday 5 may Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne

6pm

Tullamore Academy Chamber Choir

St. Joseph’s SMA Church, Wilton

6pm

The Dundanion Singers

Ireland

sunday 6 may Church of the Holy Cross, Mahon

10am

Côr CF1

Holy Trinity Church, Fr. Matthew Quay

11am

Cois Cladaigh

St Columba’s Church, Douglas

11am

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec

St. Michael’s Church, Blackrock

11am

Ensemble vocal

St. Vincent’s Church, Sunday’s Well

11am

Codetta

Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne, Shandon

11.30am

Female Chamber Choir Divina

Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield/Grange

11.30am

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club

Church of the Real Presence, Curraheen Road

11.30am

Värmlands Nations Choir

wales Ireland slovenia

germany

Ireland

Trinity Presbyterian Church, Summerhill North 11.45am

Alma Choir

Our Lady’s Crowned Church, Mayfield

12pm

Hwa Chong Choir

St. Francis Church, Liberty Street

12pm

Cantemus Chamber Choir

The Church of the Annunciation, Blackpool

12pm

The Chanterelles

russia the philippines

sweden

usa singapore Ireland

England

Photo: Donncha O'Caoimh

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

National Competition for Schools Section 1 Primary School Choirs

wednesday 2 May 11.15am, Cork City Hall Bunscoil Chríost Rí

cork Conductor: Anne Murphy Brachan Liom • Proinsias Ó Ceallaigh For The Beauty Of The Earth • John Rutter (1945 - )

Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh Cailíní

cork Conductor: Maeve-Ann O‘Brien The Dream-seller • E. Markham Lee (1874 - 1956) Deirín Dé • Trad. / Proinsias Ó Ceallaigh

Presenter: Carol Daly

Tickets: ¤5

Female Chamber Choir Divina

Russia guest performance Conductor: Galina Igumnova Otchalivshaya Rus (Cast Of Russia), no.5 • Georgyi Sviridov (1915 - 1998)

Ty Zapoy Mne Tu Pesnu (Sing me this song) • Georgyi Sviridov (1915 - 1998)

Milyi Moi Khorovod (My Sweet Round-Dance) • Russian Folk Song / Arr. A. Loginov Adjudication and presentation of prizes

Milford National School Choir Castletroy, Limerick Conductor: Linda O‘Meara Can You Hear Me • Bob Chilcott (1955 - ) A Mhuire Mháthair • Arr. Deirdre Chawke

National Competition for Schools

Section 3 Mixed Voice Post-Primary School Choirs wednesday 2 May 1.30pm, Cork City Hall Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School Choir

Tralee, Co. Kerry Conductor: Martina Ryan Egan Fáilte an Linbh • Fr. Pat Ahern (1932 - ) The Rock Island Line • Trad. / Arr. Janet Klevberg Day

Presenter: Carol Daly

Tickets: ¤5

Cashel Community School Senior Choir Co. Tipperary Conductor: John Murray Didn‘t My Lord Deliver Daniel?

• Arr. Moses Hogan (1957 - 2003) Na Coisithe • Marian Ingoldsby (1965 - )

Cór Choláiste / Gaelcholáiste Choilm

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club

De La Salle College Choir

• John August Pamintuan (1972 - ) Santo Sanctus • Josefino ‘Chino’ Toldeo (1959 - )

Ballincollig, Co. Cork Conductors: Seán Lehane & Catherine Janeczek Frost The Hills • John Ireland (1872 - 1962) Sí do mhaimeo í • Trad. / Arr. Catherine Janeczek Frost newtown, Waterford Conductors: Margaret McGann & Pamela Harrison Ave Verum • Edward Elgar (1857 - 1934) Peigín Leitir Moir • Ben Hanlon (1952 - )

The Philippines guest performance Conductor: Maria Lourdes Venida-Hermo Elisabeth Zachariae • Iaocbus Handl-Gallus (1550 - 1591) De profundis (Op. 5, No.5)

Adjudication and presentation of prizes

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

National Competition for Schools

Section 2 Equal Voice Post-Primary School Choirs, Session 1 Thursday 3 May 10am, Cork City Hall Presentation Secondary School Choir Mitchelstown, Co. Cork Conductor: Sharon O‘Donoghue Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel)

• Billy Joel (1949 - ) / Arr. Kirby Shaw Cill Chais • Aloys Fleischmann (1910 - 1992)

St Leo’s Choir

Carlow Conductor: Ian Curran I Believe • Drake, Graham, Shirl & Stillman

Presenter: Carol Daly

Tickets: ¤5

Cashel Community School Senior Girls Choir

Co. Tipperary Conductor: John Murray This Little Babe • Benjamin Britten (1913 - 1976) Seán Ó Dhuíbhir an Ghleanna • Carl Hardebeck (1869 - 1945)

Loreto Secondary School Choir

Dúlaman • Michael McGlynn (1964 - )

fermoy, Co. Cork Conductor: Tim Fouhy So Fair and Bright • Bob Chilcott (1955 Caifé Gaelach • Ben Hanlon (1952 - )

Cashel Community School Junior Choir

Ursuline Secondary School Blackrock

Cór Choláiste Na Toirbhirte

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec

/ Arr. Stan Beard & Barry Tucker

Co. Tipperary Conductor: Helen Corbett It‘s A Wonderful Thing To Be Me! • Don Besig (1936 - ) Ding Dong Dederó • Proinsias Ó Ceallaigh Bandon, Co.Cork Conductor: Gemma Magner Mon Coeur Se Recommande Á Vous

• Orlando De Lasso (1532 - 1594) / Arr. Jerry Weseley Harris Jimmy Mo Mhíle Síor • Trad. / Arr. Gemma Magner

Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane Cork Conductor: Anne Dunphy Gershwin For Girls

• George Gershwin (1898 - 1937) / Arr. Teena Chinn (1969 - ) Fuinneamh • Marian Ingoldsby (1965 - )

)

Cork Conductor: Deirdre Long Ó Cé hé Seo • Proinsias Ó Ceallaigh Five Eyes • C. Armstrong Gibbs (1889 - 1960)

Slovenia guest performance Conductor: Primož Malavašič Totus Tous • Ambrož Čopi (1973 - ) O Beata Trinitas • Jacobus Gallus (1550 - 1591) Kralj • Damijan MoČnik (1967- )

Hwa Chong Choir

Singapore guest performance Conductor: Lim Ai Hooi A Basque Lullaby • Dan Forrest (1978 - ) Erzinimai (Irritations) • Jonas Tamulionis (1949 - ) Adjudicators’ comments

Section 2 Equal Voice Post-Primary School Choirs, Session 2 Thursday 3 May 12.30pm, Cork City Hall Dún Lughaidh School Choir Dundalk, Co. Louth Conductor: Orla Drumgoole O-Re-mi (Nigerian ‘Highlife‘ Song) • Robert Bucknor / Arr. Mike Brewer Fómhar • Trad. / Arr. Orla McGrane

Cór Nano Nagle

Limerick Conductor: Gabrielle Lee-Casey Seán Ó Dhuibhir an Ghleanna • Trad. / Arr. Carl G. Hardebeck (1869 - 1945) Skimbleshanks from ‘Cats‘ • Andrew Lloyd Weber (1948 - )

Presenter: Carol Daly

Tickets: ¤5

Presentation Singers

Thurles, Co. Tipperary Conductor: Margaret Doyle An Eriskay Love Lilt • M. Kennedy-Fraser (1857 - 1930) Ya Ba Bom • arr. Maurice Goldman (1910 - 1984)

Rockford Manor Presentation Secondary School

Blackrock,Co. Dublin Conductor: Brenda Keane Enchanting Song • Béla Bartók (1881 - 1945) Deus Meus • Michael Holohan (1956 - )

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS De La Salle Senior Choir

newtown, Waterford Conductor: Ben Hanlon Lux Aurumque • Eric Whitacre (1970 - ) Molaimís go léir an tAon-Mhac Críost • Ben Hanlon (1952 - )

Maryfield College Choir

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska Highschool Sweden guest performance Conductor: Björn Johansson Dieu! qu’il la fait bon regarder! • Claude Debussy (1862 - 1918)

God only knows • Brian Wilson (1942 - ) / arr. Thomas Bergqvist

Dublin Conductor: Maura Flynn Bridge Over Troubled Water • Paul Simon (1941 - ) Sneachta • Rhona Clarke (1958 - )

Sommarpsalm (Summer hymn)

Coláiste Muire School Choir

Let’s Play Together Programme

Ennis Conductor: Carmel Griffin The Bluebird

• Waldemar Åhlén (1894 - 1982)

Students of County Cork School of Music guest performance Adjudicators’ comments

• C. V. Stanford (1852 - 1924) / arr. Arnold Foster Géibheann • Rhona Clarke (1958 - )

Section 2 Equal Voice Post-Primary School Choirs, Session 3 Thursday 3 May 3pm, Cork City Hall Ursuline Singers

Thurles, Co. Tipperary Conductor: Joan Butler Suantraí ár Slánaitheora • Fintan Ó Cearbhaill (1922 - 1981) / arr. Kevin O’Carroll Roll, Jordan Roll • Trad. / Arr. Brian Tate

St. Angela’s Secondary School Senior Choir Ballytruckle, Waterford Conductor: Veronica O’Sullivan The Sound of Silence • Paul Simon (1941 - ) Suantraí ár Slánaitheora

• Fintan O‘Carroll (1922 - 1981) / arr. Kevin O’Carroll

Holy Family Secondary School Choir Newbridge, Co. Kildare Conductor: John Francis Murphy An Fhuiseog sa Spéir • Proinsias Ó Ceallaigh Turót Ëszik A Cigány • Zoltán Kodaly (1882 - 1967)

Laurel Hill Coláiste F.C.J. Limerick Conductor: Orla Colgan Ahern Sanctus from Messe A Trois Voix

• André Caplet (1878 - 1925) Incantations • Michael McGlynn (1964 - )

St Joseph’s Mercy Secondary School – All School Choir

Presenter: Carol Daly

Tickets: ¤5

Presentation Secondary School Choir Loughboy, Co. Kilkenny Conductor: Veronica McCarron Dúlamán • Michael McGlynn (1964 - ) Adiemus • Karl Jenkins (1944 - )

Scoil Mhuire Choir

trim, Co. Meath Conductor: Jane Lynch Domine Deus • Cristobal Morales (1500 - 1553) Géibheann • Rhona Clarke (1958 - )

Alma Choir

USA guest performance Conductor: Will Nichols Song of the Birds • Clement Janequin (1485 - 1558) Witness • Negro Spiritual / Arr. Jack Halloran (1916 - 1997) Tell My Ma • Trad. / Arr. Jon Washburn (1942 - )

Ensemble vocal

Germany guest performance Conductor: Cornelius Trantow Deh, come invan sospiro (Ah, how I sigh in vain) • Carlo Gesualdo da Venosa (1566 - 1672) Der Falke (The Falcon) • Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) A new song of love • Sven-David Sandström (1942 - ) Adjudication and presentation of prizes

Navan, Co. Meath Conductor: Aideen O’Sullivan Sancta Maria, Succurre Miseris• Albert J Alcaraz (1978 - ) Caifé Gaelach • Ben Hanlon (1952 - ) 43

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

Premier National Competitions saturday 5 May 9.30am, Cork City Hall The Chanterelles

England guest performance Conductor: Shirley Court Hymn of the Travellers • Holst (1874 - 1934) Music When Soft Voices Die • Charles Wood (1866 - 1926) Praise Ye • F. Roy Bennett

Côr CF1

Wales guest performance Conductor: Eilir Owen Griffiths Y tangnefeddwyr (The Peacemakers) • Eric Jones Heilig (Sanctus) • Mendelssohn (1809 - 1847) Joshua Fit The Battle • Trad / Arr. Moses Hogan (1957 - 2003)

Celtic Choristers Male Voice Choir

Blackrock, Co. Dublin premier male Conductor: Ethel Glancy The Creation • Willy Richter (1918 - 1964) August • Michael McGlynn (1964 - ) Blue Moon • Richard Rodgers (1902 - 1979) / Arr. E. Glancy

Tullamore Academy Chamber Choir

Co. Offaly premier chamber Conductor: Ciarán Brady Suantraí ár Slánaitheora • Fintan O’Carroll (1922 - 1981) With A Lily In Your Hand from ‘Three Flower Songs’ • Eric Whitacre (1970 - )

Kyrie from ‘Mass Of Four Voices’ • William Byrd (1543 - 1623)

Tribal Chamber Choir

Galway premier chamber Conductor: Mark Keane All Creatures Now • John Bennett (1599 - 1614) Abendlied • Josef Rheinberger (1839 - 1901) Tar Anuas A Spioraid Naoimh • Mark Keane (1978 - )

Clermont Chorale

Dundalk, Co.Louth premier mixed Conductor: Ronan Dennedy Lay A Garland • Robert Pearsall (1795 - 1856) An Oíche • Michael McGlynn (1964 - ) Soneto de la Noche • Morten Lauridsen (1943 - )

Presenters: Seán Ó Callanáin & Eva O'Mahony

Tickets: ¤5

INTERVAL

Capella Lyrica

Cork premier female Conductor: Maria Judge O Magnum Mysterium • Tomas Luis de Victoria (1540 - 1611) Lament • Marian Ingoldsby (1965 - ) De Angelis • Peter Eben (1929 - 2007)

Voci

Waterford premier female Conductor: Anne Barry Angelus Ad Pastores • Sulpetia Cesis Salve Regina • Javier Busto (1949 - ) No Sancutary • Michael Holohan (1956 - )

Cantabile Vocal Ensemble

Cork premier female Conductor: Mary O’Brien The Nightingale

• Thomas Weelkes (1576 - 1623) / Arr. Henry Leslie (1892 - 1896) Laudi Alla Vergine Maria • G. Verdi (1813 - 1901) Sí Do Mhaimeo í • Trad / Arr. Michael McGlynn (1964 - )

Gracenotes

Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo premier female Conductor: Laura Brogan ‘Alma Cortes ’E Bella’ • Giovanni Gabrieli (1556 - 1612) Geantraí • Michael McGlynn (1964 - ) ‘Alleluia’ • Linda Spevacek (1945 - )

The Big Sing

John O’Brien Special Participatory Event See page 55 for more information Adjudication and presentation of prizes

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

National Open Competition and National Competition for Youth Choirs sunday 6 May 10am, Cork City Hall Cantairí Mhuscraí

Cork open competition Conductor: Mary O’Brien Dixit Maria • Hans Leo Hassler (1564 - 1612) When You Believe from The Prince of Egypt • Stephen Schwartz (1948 - ) / arr. Audrey Snyder (1969 - )

Portadown Ladies Choir

Co. Armagh open competition Conductor: Gordon Speers The Water Of Tyne • Michael Neaum (1969 - ) Bobby Shaftoe • arr. Douglas Coombes (1935 - )

Castlemartyr Choir

Presenter: David Butler

Tickets: ¤5

Opus ’96 Chamber Choir

Tralee, Co. Kerry open competition Conductor: Martin Ryan Egan The Shower • Edward Elgar (1857 - 1934) The Road Home • Stephen Paulus (1949 - )

Inver Ladies Choir

Arklow, Co. Wicklow open competition Conductor: Jennifer Lee Gipsy Lament • Zoltán Kodály (1882 - 1967) Gloria from ‘A Little Jazz Mass‘ • Bob Chilcott (1955 - )

St Patrick’s College Choir

Co. Cork open competition Conductor: Tomás Ó Tuama Wach auf, meins Herzens Schöne

Dublin youth Conductor: John O’Flynn Hark All Ye Lovely Saints • Thomas Weelkes (1576 - 1623) Calme Des Nuits • Camille Saint-Saëns (1835 - 1921)

• Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) Prairie Lullaby • Stephen Chatman (1950 - )

City of Derry Youth Choir

Cantóirí

Dublin open competition Conductor: Ben Barnes Si ch’io vorrei morire •Claudio Monteverdi (1567 - 1643) Dramolett • György Orbán (1947 - )

The Carrigaline Choral Group

Co. Cork open competition Conductor: Colm O’Regan The Seal Lullaby • Eric Whitacre (1970 - ) Chili Con Carne • Anders Endenroth (1963 - )

Cantate Arklow

Derry youth Conductor: Dónal Doherty Steal Away • Trad. / Arr. Ken Burton (1970 - ) Viva La Vida • Christopher Hussey

Cork School of Music Youth Choir Cork youth Conductor: Maria Judge Nigra Sum • Pablo Casals (1876 - 1973) Teilifís • Maria Judge (1998 - )

Students of County Cork School of Music guest performance Let’s Play Together Programme

Wicklow open competition Conductor: Margaret Fitzgerald Earth Song • Frank Tichelli (1958 - ) Lamentations Of Jeremiah • Z. Randall Stroope (1953 - )

Carrigaline, Co. Cork guest performance California Dreamin’

Loughside Chamber Choir

• John & Michelle Phillips / arr. Lynnell Diamond We Go Together • W. Casey & J. Jacobs / arr. Jo Lund

Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim open competition Conductor: Judith Watson She Moved Through The Fair • Trad. / arr. J. Watson Satamasho • Otar Taktakishvili (1924 - 1989) INTERVAL

Déjà vu Barbershop Quartet

One Fine Day • Gerry Goffin & Carole King / arr. Marsha Zwicker Bye Bye Blues • Fred Hamm, Dave Bennett, Bert Lown & Chauncey Gray / arr. Barbertones Adjudication and presentation of prizes

Portadown Male Voice Choir

Co. Armagh open competition Conductor: Gordon Speers O Sacrum Convivium • Lodovico Viadana (1564 - 1645) When The Saints Go Marching In • Trad. / arr. Denys Hood

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

National Competition for Light, Jazz and Popular Music sunday 6 May 2pm, Cork City Hall

Presenter: Nicki ffrench Davis

Loughside Chamber Choir

INTERVAL

Newstownabbey, Co. Antrim Conductor: Judith Watson Four On The Hoof • arr. J. Watson Make You Feel My Love • Bob Dylan (1941 - ) / arr. J. Watson

St Patrick’s College Choir Dublin Conductor: John O’Flynn Moon Glow

• Will Hudson, Irvine Mills (1894 - 1985), Eddie DeLange (1904 -1949) / arr: Gwyn Arch (1931- )

Libertango • Astor Piazzolla (1921 - 1992) / arr. Oscar Escalada

Opus ’96 Chamber Choir Tralee, Co. Kerry Conductor: Martin Ryan Egan Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)

• Billy Joel (1949 - ) / arr. Kirby Shaw

Is There Anybody Here Who Loves My Jesus? • Negro Spiritual / arr. Salone T Clary

Cantabile Vocal Ensemble Cork Conductor: Mary O’Brien Over The Rainbow

• Harold Arlen (1905 - 1986) / arr. Russ Robinson

America from West Side Story • Leonard Bernstein (1918 - 1990) / arr. William Stickles

Cór Mhaigh Eo

Newport, Co. Mayo Conductor: Brian Lennon Blackbird

Tickets: ¤5

Gorey Choral Group

Co. Wexford Conductor: Eithne Corregan The Way You Look Tonight • Jerome Kern (1885 - 1945) & Dorothy Fields / arr. George Mitchell

The Good-Bye Jazz • Tom Cunningham & Paul Mottram

Cór Geal, Cork

Whitechurch, Co. Cork Conductor: Betty Fitzgerald The Seal Lullaby • Eric Whitacre (1970 - ) Africa • David Paich (1954 - ), Jeff Porcaro (1954 - 1992) / arr. Roger Emerson (1954 - )

Cantate Arklow Co. Wicklow

Conductor: Margaret Fitzgerald All My Trials • Trad. / arr. Bob Chilcott (1958 - ) Wade In The Water • Norman Luboff (1917 - 1987)

Female Chamber Choir Divina Russia guest performance Conductor: Galina Igumnova OtchalivshayaRus (Cast Of Russia), no.5 • Georgyi Sviridov (1915 - 1998)

Milyi Moi Khorovod (My Sweet Round-Dance) • Trad. / arr. A. Loginov Veniki (Brooms) • Trad. / arr. F. Rubtsov

CADA Performing Arts

Ireland guest performance Adjudication and presentation of prizes

• Lennon (1940 - 1980) & McCarthy (1942 - ) / arr. Jonathan Wikeley Africa • David Paich (1954 - ), Jeff Porcaro (1954 - 1992) / arr. Philip Lawson (1957 - )

Polyphonics

Cork Conductor: Douglas Kelly Dream A Little Dream of Me • Fabian Andre (1910 - 1960), Wilbur Schwandt (1904 - 1998) / Words Gus Kahn (1886 - 1941) / arr. Tom Gentry Everybody Loves a Lover • Robert Allen (1927 - 2000) / words Richard Adler (1921 - ) / arr. Drayton Justus

NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

National Competition for Church Music sunday 6 May 2pm, st. Fin Barre’s Cathedral Presenter: Joanne Hayden Cantóirí

Dublin Conductor: Ben Barnes A Litany • William Walton (1902 - 1983) Factum Est Silentium • Richard Dering (1580 - 1630)

City of Derry Youth Choir

Derry Conductor: Dónal Doherty Ave Maria • Javier Busto (1949 - ) Alleluia: Incantations • Michael McGlynn (1964 - )

Tullamore Academic Chamber Choir Co. Offaly Conductor: Ciarán Brady Jesus Christ The Apple Tree

Admission: Free of charge

Gracenotes

Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo Conductor: Laura Brogan Adoramus Te Christe • Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525 - 1594) Tu Es • Vytautasa Miškinis (1954 - )

PfizerPfonics

Cork Conductor: Bernadette Kiely Done Made My Vow To The Lord • Negro Spiritual / Arr. Lena McLin (1928 - ) Incantations • Michael McGlynn (1964 - )

Loughside Chamber Choir

• William Byrd (1543 - 1623)

Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim Conductor: Judith Watson Benigne Fac Domine • J. A. Hasse (1699 - 1783) Regina Angelorum • Pekka Kostiainen (1944 - )

The Carrigaline Choral Group

St Patrick’s College Choir

• Elizabeth Poston (1905 - 1987)

‘Agnus Dei’ from ‘Mass For Four Voices’

Co. Cork Conductor: Colm O’Regan Ave Maria

• Giulio Caccini (1545 - 1618) / arr. Patrick M. Liebergen Bogoróditse Djévo • Arvo Pärt (1935 - )

Clermont Chorale

Dundalk, Co. Louth Conductor: Ronan Dennedy Ruf Zur Maria • Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) The Deer‘s Cry • Arvo Pärt (1935 - )

The Wilcollane Singers

Cork Conductor: Anne Dunphy Tota pulchra es • Maurice Duruflé (1902 - 1986) Ave Maria • Michael Head (1900 - 1976)

Dublin Conductor: John O’Flynn Dixit Maria • Hans Leo Hassler (1564 - 1612) Pater Noster • Albert de Klerk (1917 - 1998)

Opus ’96 Chamber Choir

Tralee, Co. Kerry Conductor: Martina Ryan Egan Tantum Ergo • Déodat De Severac (1873 - 1921) Ubi Caritas • Luke Mayernik (1981 - )

Cantabile Vocal Ensemble Cork Conductor: Mary O’Brien Domine Fili Unigenite

• Giovanni Pierluigi Palestrina (1526 - 1594) Psalm 23 • Franz Schubert (1797 - 1828)

CIT CSM Vocal Chamber Society

Cór Mhaigh Eo

INTERVAL

St Fin Barre’s Cathedral Choir

Cork Conductor: Fearghal O’Connor Crucifixus • Antonio Lotti (1667 - 1740) The Battle Of Jericho • Moses Hogan (1957 - 2003)

Castlemartyr Choir

Co. Cork Conductor: Tomás Ó Tuama Abendlied, Op. 69, No. 3 • Josef Rheinberger (1839 - 1901) Almighty and Everlasting God

Newport, Co. Mayo Conductor: Brian Lennon Gaudeamus omnes • William Byrd (1540 - 1623) Nunc Dimmitis • Paweł Łukaszewski (1968 - )

guest performance

Conductor: Malcolm Wisener Organ: James Taylor Adjudication and presentation of prizes

• Orlando Gibbons (1583 - 1625)

festival awards

International Awards Lady Dorothy Mayer Memorial Trophy

Special award for the performance of a piece in the International Competition. Donated by Chris Mahon Awarded to

Schuman/Europe Trophy

Special award for the performance of a work by a living European composer in the International Competition. In memory of Moira Pyne (1916 - 2009) Awarded to

Heinrich Schütz Perpetual Trophy

Special award for the performance of a work by Heinrich Schütz in the International or National Competitions. In memory of Dr. Hans Waldemar Rosen Awarded to

The McCurtain and McSwiney Memorial Trophy

Special Award, decided by the members of the International Jury, to a conductor in the International Competition for the performance of an imaginative and artistic programme. The recipient of this award will also receive a copy of the Musica DVD-ROM which is kindly donated by Musica International, the worldwide virtual choral library, a major project of the International Federation for Choral Music. Donated by the Cork Council of Trade Unions Awarded to

P.E.A.C.E. Trophy

Awarded to a choir that best embraces the sprit of the Festival, and fulfils the intentions of the trophy’s benefactors, the P. E. A. C. E. Movement, Cork. Donated by P.E.A.C.E. Movement, Cork Awarded to

AWARDS CEREMONY Adjudication of Fleischmann International Trophy Competition and Presentation of Festival Awards Sunday 6 May 5.15pm, Cork City Hall Presenters: Seán Ó Callanáin & Eva O’Mahoney Guest Performance by Ceoltóirí Chairbre, Ireland

Entry is free of charge and open to all. Cover photo: Cian Daly

festival awards

Adult Competition Awards Trofaí Cuimhneacháin Philib Uí Laoghaire (The Pilib Ó Laoghaire Memorial Trophy) Special award for the performance of a piece in Irish. Donated by Cór Cois Laoi Awarded to _____________________________________________________________________________

Perpetual Trophy for the Performance of Irish Contemporary Choral Music Special award for the performance of an original choral work by an Irish composer written after 1975 and chosen from the library collection of the Contemporary Music Centre. Donated by The Contemporary Music Centre, Ireland Awarded to

The John Mannion Memorial Trophy

Special award for the performance of a piece in the Premier Competition for Chamber Choirs. Donated by the family of John Mannion Awarded to

Victor Leeson Perpetual Trophy (National Choir of the Festival)

Awarded to the Best Overall Choir in the Premier National Competitions. The winner will be designated The National Choir of the Festival. Donated by the Guinness Choir in memory of its founder Victor Leeson on the occasion of the choir’s 50th Anniversary in 2001 Awarded to

School Competition Awards The Association of Irish Choirs Trophy

Special award for the performance of a piece in the National Competition for Schools. Awarded to

Irish Federation of Musicians & Associated Professions Trophy Special award for the performance of a piece in Irish in the National Competition for Schools. Awarded to

The Chris Mahon Bursary for Conductors

Special bursary award to a conductor in the festival’s school competitions to attend the AOIC’s Annual Summer School. Donated by the Mahon family in memory of Chris Mahon’s association with the festival. Awarded to

John Cunningham Trophy (School Choir of the Festival)

The school choir who receives the highest overall mark in the National Competition for Schools will be designated School Choir of the Festival and presented with The John Cunningham Trophy. Awarded to

education

The 44th Seminar on New Choral Music Saturday 5 May 10am - 12.30pm, Stack Theatre, CIT Cork School of Music, Admission: Free of charge The Cork International Choral Festival has a long-standing commitment to foster awareness and appreciation of new choral music. With this in mind a seminar was initiated in 1962 as part of the festival programme by the late Aloys Fleischmann, Professor of Music at University College Cork, as being central to this purpose. The Festival presents the 44th edition of the Seminar on New Choral Music as a joint collaboration with The National Chamber Choir of Ireland, our Choir in Residence. The Seminar on New Choral Music maintains its initial purpose of commissioning new works to provide a platform for, and to encourage the composition and performance of, new choral music in Ireland. In the last few years the Seminar has specifically promoted 52

education the commission of new works by Irish composers to develop a wider knowledge and understanding of Irish compositional life. It is of central importance to the festival and the NCC that this seminar is accessible to all and assists in making current practice in the performance of new choral music accessible to the wider choral sector in Ireland. It does so with a view to supporting the inclusion of these commissions and other new music as a part of the regular repertoire of Irish choirs. This year brings two new works to Cork; Long Time by comissioned composer Gerald Barry and Two Unholy Haikus by the winner of this year’s Seán Ó Riada Competition, Frank Corcoran. The Seán Ó Riada Competition was initiated in 1972 in recognition of the creative life and work of Seán Ó Riada. It is a composition competition which invites the submission of new works from Irish composers in a collaboration between the Cork International Choral Festival and the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. This year the competition captured the imagination of 33 Irish composers and has excited us by the range and quality of entries. We are delighted to welcome both composers to Cork to take part in the Seminar. Without the financial support of the Arts Council in making the commission of Gerald Barry possible, this seminar would not be in a position to continue to fulfil its important role in promoting the work of Irish composers and encouraging the composition of new choral music. John Fitzpatrick Artistic and Festival Director

Both new compositions will receive their world premieres by the National Chamber Choir of Ireland in their festival concert. See page 17 for concert details.

Long Time

Composer: Gerald Barry Long Time was written in 2011 and commissioned by the Cork International Choral Festival and the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. It is a setting of the first two pages of Swann’s Way, the first volume of Marcel Proust’s novel, In Search of Lost Time. The title of the piece comes from Proust’s first sentence, “For a long time I used to go to bed early”, and the passage describes the sensations of going to sleep.

Gerald Barry Gerald Barry was born in 1952 and studied with Stockhausen and Kagel. He has written five operas, The Intelligence Park for the London Almeida Festival (performed in London and Dublin), The Triumph of Beauty and Deceit for Channel 4 Television (performed in Aldeburgh, London, Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, Los Angeles, New York - recorded on the Largo label), The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant for ENO/RTÉ (performed in Dublin, London, Basel) - recorded on the RTÉ label), La Plus Forte (The Stronger) for Radio France (performed in Paris, Amsterdam, London, Dublin, Toronto, Miami) and The Importance of Being Earnest for The Los Angeles Philharmonic/Barbican London, performed in Los Angeles and London. 2013 will see new stagings of The Triumph of Beauty and Deceit at the Badisches Staatstheater Karlsruhe, The Importance of Being Earnest at Opera de Nancy, a new piano concerto for Musica Viva Munich, and his music will be featured at the Dark Music Days in Reykjavik.

Rhona Clarke Rhona Clarke was born in Dublin. She studied music at University College, Dublin, completed a Ph.D at Queen’s University, Belfast. Her output includes choral, chamber, orchestral and electronic works. She has received commissions from RTÉ, the Cork International Choral Festival, Concorde, Music Network and the National Concert Hall, among others. Her work has been performed and broadcast throughout Ireland and worldwide. Latest works include con coro for violin, cello and tape commissioned and performed by Concorde in 2011 as part of their Up Close With Music series and also to be performed in Chicago by the Palomar Ensemble. Relic (2011) is a collaboration with visual artist Marie Hanlon and is a non–narrative film with music, based on the landscape of the Burren area in the west of Ireland. This year she has been commissioned by the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra to write a new orchestral work and by the Society of Recorder Players for a piece for massed players to be performed as part of their 2013 Festival. Rhona is a member of Aosdána, Ireland’s state-sponsored academy of creative artists. 53

education

Seán Ó Riada Competition The Seán Ó Riada Competition is a composition competition which invites the submission of new works from Irish composers. The competition is a collaboration between the Cork International Choral Festival and Choir in Residence, the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. The winning composition is selected by a panel of composers and choral experts, and becomes a featured work at the Seminar for New Choral Music, held annually as part of the Festival. The work receives its premiere performance at a Gala Concert given by the National Chamber Choir of Ireland, conducted by Paul Hillier, on Friday 4th May 2012. The winning composer is also invited to attend and play an active part in the Seminar session the following day. Initiated in 1972 in recognition of the creative life and work of Seán Ó Riada, the competition invites applications from both established and emerging composers, born or resident in Ireland. Assessment takes place under pseudonym, with this year’s panel consisting of Gerald Barry (commissioned composer 2012), Rhona Clarke (Seminar Chairperson) and Paul Hillier (Artistic Director and Conductor, National Chamber Choir of Ireland) The winning composition is awarded the Seán Ó Riada Trophy and a prize of ¤750. Previous winners include well-known names such as Rhona Clarke, Séamas de Barra, Michael Holohan, Marian Ingoldsby, Simon MacHale, Michael McGlynn, Kevin O’Connell, and last year’s winner, Patrick Connolly. The Festival would like to extend its congratulations to this year’s winner Frank Corcoran for his winning composition Two Unholy Haikus.

education

The Big Sing Saturday 5 May 12pm, Cork city hall Admission: Free of charge With the ambition of ensuring everybody gets the opportunity to sing in the Festival, we invite you to come and take part in The Big Sing 2012. The first ever Big Sing in 2011 was a huge success with over 300 people turning out to learn Verdi’s classic Va, pensiero, making it one of the largest choirs ever to have sung at the Choral Festival! This year we hope to make The Big Sing even bigger and better, and invite you to join us in the City Hall and be part of the experience. You don’t need to be able to sing, it’s simply about lending your voice and experiencing first-hand the enjoyment and sense of community that lies at the heart of choral singing. In just 45 minutes, accomplished composer and conductor John O’Brien will teach the Hallelujah Chorus from Georg Friedrich Handel’s Messiah to the attending crowd, supported by some of our national choirs. This famed choral work is performed regularly around the world, and features frequently in movies, television programs and commercials. The Big Sing is open to everyone and admission is free. Music and lyrics will be handed out on the day, and there’s no preparation necessary – just sing from, and for, the heart!

John O’Brien Conductor John O’Brien is a conductor, director and composer based in Cork. Recent work includes directing and designing the set for the acclaimed production of Dido & Aeneas at Cork Opera House, which will tour Ireland this summer; directing the dance film Inner Landscapes; musical direction for the premieres of two modern operas ‘Thamyrus’ and ‘Time for Earthenware’ at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford; creating The Voice Effect (Choir-inResidence at Cork Opera House); and writing the music for the feature film ‘Tree Keeper’. John has worked on over forty different productions of opera and musical theatre in Ireland, Northern Ireland, London, Edinburgh, Montreal and Regina; and has toured with choirs across Europe, Japan and China. He is the former Music Director of Opera Works and the Cork Children's Chorus, and has conducted a recording with the National Chamber Choir, and the TV programme Carols from Cork 2005, both for RTE. He is also the conductor of the Wexford Gateway Orchestra, and premiered his first symphony in May. John’s string quartet, ‘towards a new enlightenment...’ is available for free download at www.enlightenmentquartet.com

Photo: Joya Kuin

education

Conductors Masterclass Sunday 6 May 10am, CIT Cork School of Music, Participation fee: ¤40 / conc. ¤35 Observer fee: ¤12 / conc. ¤10 The Association of Irish Choirs and Cork International Choral Festival are delighted to offer a Masterclass for conductors with dynamic Finnish conductor Pasi Hyökki (see biography pg. 58) in association with CIT Cork School of Music. The Masterclass is open to established conductors who wish to improve their skills and techniques, working under the guidance of this highly-regarded conductor and teacher. Each conductor will be expected to have prepared two pieces of their choice in advance and Pasi Hyökki will work with each individual for 20 minutes on each piece. In total each participant will be allowed approximately 40 minutes of ‘stand time’ to work with renowned Irish choir, The Park Singers (see biography pg. 64). Pasi will also rehearse the choir, giving both participants and observers an opportunity to see him in action and to learn from his precise and energetic conducting techniques.

Schools Concerts thursday 3 May 11.30am, Various schools

Not open to the public

This series of concerts provide a unique opportunity for students in county schools to experience some of the festival atmosphere by bringing international choirs into the classroom. This year’s host schools are: Carrignafoy Community College, Cobh Davis College, Mallow Glanmire Community College, Glanmire

education

15th Composers in the Classroom Seminar

developing approaches to creative composition in the classroom.

friday 4 May 2.15pm, Millennium Hall, Cork City Hall

Participating Schools:

The residency culminates in a seminar held as part of the Cork International Choral Festival, where student get the chance to perform their compositions and listen to the work of other schools in the scheme.

Coláiste An Chraoibhín, Fermoy, Co Cork. Music teacher: Ernestine Healy

Admission: Free of charge The Composers in the Classroom scheme is an initiative which brings professional composers and musicians, quite literally, into the classroom as part of a special curriculum devised for transition year music students and their teachers. Initiated in 1998 by Cork International Choral Festival and the Arts Officers of Cork City and Cork County Councils, the scheme offers music students and their teachers the opportunity to work with professional composers throughout the school year. The scheme has been highly successful in encouraging and assisting students, many with little or no musical training, in their musical creativity and experimentation. Students are required to listen to a wide range of music, analysing and discussing various elements. For the teacher, the residency provides an opportunity to work alongside a professional composer, discussing and

St Aloysius College, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork. Music teacher: Pat Sheehan Gaelcholáiste Mhuire, Cork. Music teacher: Ciara Ní Mhaolagáin Regina Mundi College, Cork. Music teacher: Rosemary Beecher

Composers in Residence: Sam Barker Paul Linehan Louise McCarthy Róisin McGrath Cork International Choral Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Arts Offices of Cork City Council and Cork County Council.

biogr aphies

International Adjudicators Ralph Allwood

Precentor and Director of Music for 26 years at Eton College, UK, Ralph Allwood recently left his position to pursue freelance activities as conductor of the orchestra of St Paul’s Girls’ School, Director of Music at Hampstead Parish Church and the founding of Inner Voices, a choir for young people from ten Inner London state schools. As a pupil at Tiffin School and a student at Durham University, Ralph received the Eve Myra Kysh prize for music and conducted the University Chamber Choir from 1970 until his graduation in 1972. He later became a member of the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge before taking up a position as Director of Music at Pangbourne College. While Director of Music at Uppingham he founded the annual Choral Courses for prospective choral scholars which currently host up to four hundred young singers each year, the best voices of which form the Rodolfus Choir. In addition to a position as adjudicator for the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, Ralph Allwood is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music and Honorary Associate of the Royal Academy of Music.

Kathleen Dineen

Ireland

Soprano and harpist Kathleen Dineen teaches voice and medieval vocal ensemble at the renowned Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, Switzerland. Among her many achievements, including the position of Artist in Residence at the Stimmen festival in Germany in 2010, Kathleen directs the highly successful Basel-based vocal trio White Raven, which specialise in Irish traditional and medieval repertoires. As a music graduate from University College Cork, Kathleen sang and performed for a number of years with a range of well-known artists, such as London based ensemble The Clerkes of Oxenford, before moving to 58

Switzerland in 1987 to study voice with Richard Levitt and Dominique Vellard. Kathleen has enjoyed a successful career as vocal arranger and composer with a large repertoire of musical arrangements for voice and harp accompaniment, and has featured on many recordings of the Ferrara Ensemble Basel, as well as recordings with White Raven on their label, Blasket Music. The artist’s long established collaboration with countertenor Andreas Scholl culminated in a newly released album ‘Songs of Myself’ which received rave reviews by critics at its recent London premiere.

Prof. Péter Erdei

Hungary

Director of the Zoltán Kodály Pedagogical Institute of Music, Kecskemét, 1974-2008. Professor of choral conducting and conductor of the Alma Mater Choir at the Liszt Academy of Music, Budapest. Founder and conductor of the New Liszt Ferenc Chamber Choir, 2010. Permanent guest professor of the Central Conservatory of Music, Beijing, CN. Co-founder of the Kodály Musical Training Institute, USA, 1969. For many years Péter Erdei has conducted choirs such as the Hungarian Radio Choir, the Kodaly Choir of Debrecen, and the Teachers’ Choir of Kecskemét. The last three decades have seen many premier performances and recordings of many contemporary Hungarian choral works. Among many accolades, Péter Erdei was awarded the Order of Merit (civilian) Officer Cross in 1995 by the President of the Hungary, as well as the Order of Merit Chief Officer Cross in 2002 by the King of Norway.

Pasi Hyökki

Finland Born in 1970, Pasi Hyökki is a graduate of the Master of Arts (Music) in Choral Conducting programme at Sibelius Academy in Helsinki; continuing his studies with master classes from Eric Ericson and Anders Eby.

As Artistic Director of the Tapiola Choir, YL Male Voice Choir, and two self-established choirs - the EMO Ensemble and Talla Vocal Ensemble Hyökki was awarded the honour of “Best Conductor” in the Tampere Vocal Festival in 1997, as well as the ‘In... Canto sul Garda’ competition in Italy in 2001.

biogr aphies As a sopranist, Pasi Hyökki has studied under Claudine Ansermét, Christina Miatello and Gloria Banditelli in Urbino, Italia. He performed his debut concert in 2003 as the soprano soloist in Händel’s Messiah, with a first solo concert in Viitasaariin 2004, premiering commissioned works from Sampo Haapamäki, Perttu Haapanen and Seppo Pohjola.

Helena Fojkar Zupančič

Slovenia

As both a music teacher and solo singer, Helena Fojkar Zupančič has the perfect foundation for choral conducting. Her knowledge of the human voice and her refined approach to singers are reflected in the sophisticated vocal techniques she utilises and the extremely cultivated sound of the choirs she conducts - notably St. Stanislav’s Girls’ Choir and St.

School Competition Adjudicators Shane Brennan

Nicholas Mixed Choir Litija. Both choirs have received many significant awards at national and international competition, with St. Stanislav’s Girls’ Choir achieving first prize at the Euroradio Competition in Oslo 2009. In 2004, and again between 2007 and 2009, Helena was choirmaster of the Slovenian Children’s Choir and has also collaborated and recorded with the RTV Slovenia Chamber Choir. In her musical interpretations, this accomplished conductor strives to offer an experience of musical eloquence through the fusion of music and words. Helena’s rich knowledge, skills and experience have brought her much success and she is a much soughtafter singer as well as lecturer at choral and conducting seminars.

for performances and recordings of Bach’s Six Trio Sonatas, and the Clavier-Übung Part III, underway for 2012.

Bernie Sherlock

Ireland

Arts Education Officer for the Midlands region, Shane Brennan spent 19 years as Director of the Schola Cantorum at St Finians College Mullingar and Director of Music at both the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar and Whitefriar St. Carmelite Church, Dublin. Earlier appointments included periods as Organ Scholar at the Pro-Cathedral Dublin 1977-1982 and at Westminster Cathedral London, where he worked with three eminent Masters of Music. As an organ recitalist Shane has performed in Ireland, the UK and Sweden, with notable recent international performances in Lithuania and Russia. He also performs frequently at the International Summer Series at St. Michael's, Dun Laoghaire. Shane has served as an adjudicator at many Irish choral festivals, as well as being a DES examiner for choir and orchestra exams for almost 18 years. Early recordings include an album of Bach, Sweelinck, Brahms and Wagner compositions on the magnificent Frobenius organ at Tullamore, and Shane is in preparations

Bernie Sherlock trained in choral conducting in Hungary with Peter Erdei and Ildikó Herboly Kocsár, and later Gerhard Markson of the NSO, before earning a Masters from NUI Maynooth. In 2005 she founded New Dublin Voices, now established as one of Ireland’s leading chamber choirs. Known for its innovative concert programming as well as its television, radio and recording work, NDV has also won major prizes from competitions in France, Germany, Hungary, Finland, Italy and Belgium, and won 2nd prize in the 2010 Fleischmann International Competition where Bernie was also awarded the International Jury Award. In addition to her role as Musical Director of the Culwick Choral Society, Bernie lectures in music at DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama, teaches choral conducting and is a frequent adjudicator at national and international level. Bernie is Artistic Director of Educational Programmes for the Association of Irish Choirs, including the annual International Conducting Summer School. 59

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Artists Tom Climent Ireland National Competition Awards

Liam Lavery

Tom Climent is an award winning artist based in Cork City. His newer work operates in both painting and sculpture, focusing on the creation of space and investigating the boundaries between abstraction and representation as a means of conveying this. Exploring the dematerialised qualities one does not actually see in reality, and using spatial structures as a vehicle to make this quality solid and physical.

Contemporary Irish artist Liam Lavery, working fulltime since 1992 and collaborating with fellow artist Eithne Ring, has developed his work from small low-relief wall panels made of cast aluminium, through to large-scale public commissions using a variety of different materials; bronze wood, copper, enamels, glass and stainless steel. Most of his ideas are born in a brief moment, such as that between sleeping and waking. One of his earliest dreams was one that coincided with the dawn train which used to pass near his home. In the dream the sandman, who lived on the moon, drove a bulldozer and pushed back the darkness to let the daylight through. Drawing as part of the creative process is important to Liam because it takes him to that space where the sandman reveals the light in the darkness, which grows into a sketch and develops into a sculpture.

Previous solo shows include ones in The Hunt Museum, The Fenton Gallery, The Temple Bar Gallery & Studios, Garter Lane Arts Centre, Kevin Kavanagh Gallery, Triskel Arts Centre, The Alley Theatre Arts Centre and The South Tipperary Arts Centre. Tom’s work can be found in the collections of The Central Bank, National Treasury Management Agency, University College Cork, AIB Bank, The National Self-Portrait Collection, NCB Stockbrokers, The Cork Opera House, Cork City Council, The Office of Public Works and Cork Institute of Technology and private collections in Ireland, Spain, UK, USA & Canada. “The title of the work is At day’s end, a choir awaits. It depicts an atmospheric empty stage set, which awaits the performers’ entrance. The steps leading up to a raised platform lie in invitation to the singers’ arrival. It contains the space of silence before the voice begins. Like an intake of breath held, and the promise of the performance to come.”

‘At day’s end, a choir awaits’ Tom Climent. 60

Ireland Fleischmann International Trophy Competition Award

Creating unique sculptures for the Festival since 1994, “affords me the opportunity to be spontaneous and selfindulgent in a way that is more closely related to the nature of my sketchbooks and watercolours, and which is very different to the more disciplined process of creating public artworks.”

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Fleischmann International Trophy Competition

Cantemus Chamber Choir

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club

Based in East Cork, and under the direction of Tomás Ó Tuama, Cantemus Chamber Choir’s eight year history has seen the choir grow to become one of the region’s top vocal ensembles. The choir’s impressive repertoire features shorter choral works of various styles, ranging from the 15th to 21st century. The ensemble has premiered a number of new choral works by Cork composers.

The Philippines

Established in 1921, the Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club (ACGC) has distinguished itself as the oldest university chorale in the Philippines. The choir has since pioneered many firsts as a Filipino choral group, triumphing in numerous national and international competitions such as Miltenberg in Germany and Arezzo in Italy. The choir have both toured and competed extensively throughout Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the USA; celebrating their 90th year in 2011 with a win at the International May Choir Competition in Varna, Bulgaria. Drawing from a rich tradition of musical excellence, the choir focus primarily on liturgical music, with two commercial recordings released to date.

Ireland

With multiple successes in Cork in national competitions over the past five years, the choir was awarded National Choir of the Festival in 2008, took top honours for Sacred Musical and Madrigal Singing at Sligo International Choral Festival in 2007 and 2009, and is the current holder of the National Choir of the Year award from the Navan Festival.

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 12pm: Church Visit, St. Francis Church, Liberty Street Sun 6th May, 2-5.30pm: Public Performance, Afternoons in the Atrium, Clarion Hotel Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Codetta

Ireland

Accomplished conductor, Professor Maria Lourdes Venida-Hermo, has led the choir since 2002. Professor Hermo is a regular adjudicator at national competitions, as well as Vice President of the Philippine Choral Directors Association.

When & Where: Wed 2nd May, 1.30pm: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools: Section 3, Cork City Hall Thu 3rd May, 11.30am: Public Performance, Cork City Library, Grand Parade Thu 3rd May, 1.10pm: Fringe Concert with Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec at Triskel Christchurch Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11.30am: Church Visit, Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield/Grange Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Founded in 2001 by Dónal Doherty, Codetta is an internationally acclaimed choir with a variety of national and international performances and appearances recorded in the last number of years. Originally all from Derry, Northern Ireland, but now living, working and studying throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe, Codetta’s members meet in Derry for monthly rehearsals throughout the year. Their extensive and wide61

biogr aphies ranging repertoire has brought the choir much success in international competition, notably reaching the final of the Grand Prix in Maribor in 2008 and winning awards at the Sligo and Cork festivals in 2008/2009. In addition to an Italian tour in 2010 the choir participated in the Montreux Choral Festival in April 2011, were featured in an episode of the award-winning TV series ‘Seacht’, and held a recent performance of Bach’s Mass in B Minor.

Sun 6th May, 11am: Church Visit, Holy Trinity Church, Fr. Matthew Quay Sun 6th May, 2-5.30pm: Public Performance, Afternoons in the Atrium, Clarion Hotel Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Côr CF1

Wales

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11am: Church Visit, St. Vincent’s Church, Sunday’s Well Sun 6th May, 2.-5.30pm: Public Performance, Afternoons in the Atrium, Clarion Hotel Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Cois Cladaigh

Ireland

Founded in 1982, Cois Cladaigh specialises in contemporary choral and European music from the late 15th and early 16th century. The choir has performed and toured extensively throughout Ireland and Europe and the USA. The choir skilfully blend a mix of both European and Irish choral music with traditional Irish song and dance music. Recent tours have brought the choir to Estonia in 2007, to Essen in 2010, where the choir represented Ireland at the city’s European City of Culture celebrations, and most recently to Seville, Spain in October 2011.

Cardiff has been the home of this energetic and spirited choir since they formed in 2002. With members originating from all over Wales, Côr CF1 originated as a successful youth choir, and have since gone on to form a mixed choir. Among the ensemble’s accomplishments are performances at the official opening of the Welsh Millennium Centre in 2004, a performance of Carmina Burana at St. David’s Hall in 2009, and their collaboration in the world premiere of Karl Jenkins’ O Beata Trinitas. Under the direction of accomplished conductor and composer Eilir Owen Griffiths, the choir has taken first place in various categories at the National Eisteddfod and Eisteddfod Pontrhydfendigaid, as well as reaching the finals of the BBC Choir of the Year in 2010.

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 9.30am: Guest Performance at Premier National Competition, Cork City Hall Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 10am: Church Visit, Church of the Holy Cross, Mahon Sun 6th May, 2-5.30pm: Public Performance, Afternoons in the Atrium, Clarion Hotel Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Cois Cladaigh has enjoyed much success in competition, winning the Premier National Award on four occasions in Cork, as well as other accolades. The choir takes an active role in commissioning new works with past commissions including works by John Buckley, Micheál Ó Súilleabháin and Javier Busto.

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall 62

biogr aphies Ensemble vocal

Germany

Founded in 1994 Ensemble vocal is a mixed chamber choir, which has developed to become one of Germany’s leading ensembles in recent years. With almost 200 performances to date, the choir has achieved much success in both national and international competition, taking top prize at Deutscher Chorwettbewerb Choral Competition in 2006, and enjoying success at Marktoberdorf, Germany and Tolosa in Spain. The choir’s repertoire covers all epochs of choral music, from ancient texts, to romantic choral literature, to vocal jazz. Ensemble vocal maintain a broad range of 20th century works, taking in classical modernist, avant-garde and contemporary musical works from Scandinavia, Hungary and the Baltic nations. The choir is conducted by Director Cornelius Trantow, who has been Professor of Choral Conducting at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater, Hamburg, since 1999.

group of choristers from Hwa Chong Institution, one of Singapore’s top schools. Since its inception in 1974, the choir has successfully performed in numerous concerts and events including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010. Under the baton of Ms Lim Ai Hooi, the choir has achieved excellent results in various local and international choral competitions, with an impressive gold awards at World Choir Games in Germany, China and Austria. The choir was also crowned World Champion for Mixed Choirs at the 2008 Games in Austria. The choir have competed extensively in Europe, with successes at the 39th Florilege Vocal de Tours in France in 2010, as well as taking several top prizes at Olomouc, Czech Republic.

When & Where: Thu 3rd May, 10am: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools Section 2, Cork City Hall Thu 3rd May, 3pm: Public Performance, Douglas Library Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 12pm: Church Visit, Our Lady’s Crowned Church, Mayfield Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

When & Where:

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec

Thu 3rd May, 3pm: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools Section 2, Cork City Hall Fri 4th May, 1.10pm: Fringe Concert with Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High school at Triskel Christchurch Fri 4th May, 5pm: Public Performance, Bodega, Cornmarket Street Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11am: Church Visit, St. Michael’s Church, Blackrock Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Slovenia

Hwa Chong Choir

Singapore

The Hwa Chong Choir is composed of a passionate

Founded in 1953 by a group of students from the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, the Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec originally came under the direction of acclaimed conductor Anton Nanut. The choir has enjoyed many successes in international competition over the years and has won various prestigious awards from Italy, Czech Republic and Croatia. Recent performances and tours by the choir have included Stockholm, Vienna, Strasbourg and Split. In 2009, the choir appeared as a special guest at the Croatian National Choral Competition in Novigrad, also undertaking a tour of South Africa under the invite of the prestigious institute, Hilton College. The choir have 63

biogr aphies amassed a large collection of recordings, their most recent release being in 2008.

The Park Singers

Ireland

When & Where: Thu 3rd May, 10am: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools Section 2, Cork City Hall Thu 3rd May, 1.10pm: Fringe Concert with Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club at Triskel Christchurch Fri 4th May, 4pm: Public Performance, Cork Vision Centre, North Main St. Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11am: Church Visit, St. Columba’s Church, Douglas Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

The Chanterelles

England

Founded in 1970 by Seán Creamer, the choir takes its name from the Phoenix Park School where it was founded and based in its early years. The choir has more recently come under the direction of conductor Orla Gillan, who has led The Park Singers to success in performances at home and abroad, including Best Female Choir at the North Wales Festival in 2011, and National Choir of the Festival in Cork in 2011. The choir has also picked up numerous accolades at the ESB Féis Ceoil, coming first in the Female Competition in 2011, and Female and Irish Music Competition in 2010. With a repertoire that includes a wide range of styles, the ensemble give particular focus to works by contemporary Irish composers. 2008 saw the choir record their first album, ‘Regardez le Chef’, as well as collaborate on the score for independent Irish film, ‘On Christmas Eve’.

Formed by a group of friends who were all once part of the Chanterelle Youth Choir in Leicestershire in the early 1990’s, this all female ensemble recently reunited in 2009 due to a common love of singing in an engaging, disciplined and professional manner. Since reforming, the choir has performed concerts locally with the Bath Male Voice Choir and the popular male quartet ‘Blake’. July 2010 saw the choir’s most impressive success to date, taking gold in the Female Choir category at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod in Wales, an outstanding achievement, particularly poignant also having won the Youth Choir section in 1998.

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 10am: Choir in Residence at the Conductors’ Masterclass, CIT Cork School of Music Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Värmlands Nations Choir

Sweden

Recent performances saw the choir take part in the Radio Leicester Charity Gala, and 2012 will see the choir compete for the first time in Cork.

When & Where: Sat 5th May, 9.30am: Guest Performance at Premier National Competition, Cork City Hall Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 12am: Church Visit, The Church of the Annunciation, Blackpool Sun 6th May, 2-5.30pm: Public Performance, Afternoons in the Atrium, Clarion Hotel Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall 64

With roots in the 1820’s, this long-established student choir is a mixed group comprising approximately 50 members. The group originally formed from a ‘nation’ or student society set up in Uppsala as a gathering point for students from the Värmlands region of Sweden. The choir performs a wide-ranging repertoire and in recent years has grown to encompass everything from hymns, popular, folk, classical, and world music genres,

biogr aphies with a few student friendly drinking songs included for good measure. The broad spectrum of songs is a natural consequence of the members’ diverse background and natural progression of old to new students. Regarded as one of the best choirs in Uppsala, a region well famed for the quality of its choral tradition, Värmlands Nations Choir has increased its ambitions in recent years with regards to both its repertoire as well as musical and artistic execution.

When & Where: Thu 3rd May, 11am: Fringe Concert, Masonic Hall, Tuckey Street Thu 3rd May, 12.30pm: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools Section 2, Cork City Hall Fri 4th May, 1.10pm: Fringe Concert with Ensemble vocal at Triskel Christchurch Sat 5th May, 8pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall

Sara Hjort, a student of choral conducting at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, has conducted the choir since 2011.

When & Where: Thu 3rd May, 6pm: Public Performance, Lewis Glucksman Gallery, UCC Fri 4th May, 2.15pm: Guest Performance at Composers in the Classroom Seminar, Millennium Hall, Cork City Hall Sat 5th May, 3pm: Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11.30am: Church Visit, Church of the Real Presence, Curraheen Road Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala, Cork City Hall

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School Sweden

One of Sweden’s foremost mixed youth choirs, Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School comprises a large mixed chamber choir of members ranging in age from 16 to 19 years. Founded in 1996 by current Choir Director, Björn Johansson, the ensemble performs a wide a cappella repertoire from many languages and countries, moving from renaissance and classical styles through to pop, contemporary and jazz arrangements. The choir has toured and competed extensively, with appearances at major international festivals in Poland, Italy, Switzerland, Greece, Hungary, and Estonia, as well as numerous appearances in their native Sweden. Competing in Cork for the third time in 2012, the ensemble has recorded three albums, with the most recent being a studio recording in 2010. 65

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Non-competitive Choirs Alma Choir

Usa

members study vocal and instrumental classes, and many are full time students and staff of the university. Having competed successfully at festivals in Greece, Estonia, Czech Republic and Austria, the Female Chamber Choir Divina plays an important part in choral and musical life in St. Petersburg, regularly performing school and public concerts. The choir works from a repertoire of classical, sacred and folk music, and is led by Director and Conductor Galina Igumnova.

When & Where:

Hailing from Michigan, Alma Choir is the senior choir in the Alma College choral program. Its members, all undergraduates between the ages of 20 and 23, are preparing for careers in the sciences, business, education, the ministry and music. The choir has been the primary focus of Conductor Dr Will Nichols’ professional life since 1983. National and international touring is an important part of the choir’s mission. They have made seven international tours since 1998 and their appearance at the 2012 Cork International Choral Festival is their first visit to Ireland.

Wed 2nd May, 11.15am: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools: Section 1, Cork City Hall Thu 3rd May, 11.30am: School Concert, Davis College, Mallow (not open to the public) Sat 5th May, 3pm: Guest Performance at Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11.30am: Church Visit, Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne (North Cathedral), Shandon Sun 6th May, 2pm: Guest Performance at National Competition for Light, Jazz & Popular Music, Cork City Hall

Yoav Choir

Israel

When & Where: Thu 3rd May, 11.30am: School Concert, Carrignafoy Community College, Cobh (not open to the public) Thu 3rd May, 3pm: Guest Performance at National Competition for Schools: Section 2, Cork City Hall Fri 4th May, 2.30pm: Public Performance, CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory Sat 5th May, 2.30pm: Public Performance, Bishopstown Library Sat 5th May, 8pm: Guest Performance, Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 11.45am: Church Visit, Trinity Presbyterian Church, Summerhill North

Female Chamber Choir Divina

Russia

Yoav Choir was established in 1982 under the auspices of the Yoav Regional Council. Under the direction of accomplished choral conductor Shimon Levtov since 2005, the choir performs a wide repertoire including a variety of both classical and modern works, with a special focus on works by eminent Israeli composers. The choir has performed and competed extensively throughout Israel, as well as participating in a number of festivals including Europa Cantat in the Czech Republic and The Singing World in Russia. Yoav Choir frequently performs at concerts and festivals in Israel, and in 1999 travelled to Norway to undertake a very successful concert tour.

When & Where:

Female Chamber Choir Divina was founded in 2003 at St Petersburg’s renowned musical school named after the famous Russian composer N. Rimsky-Korsakov. Choir

Thu 3rd May, 11.30am: School Concert, Glanmire Community College (not open to the public) Thu 3rd May, 2.30pm: Public Performance, AIB Bank, South Mall Thu 3rd May, 5pm: Public Performance, Blarney Castle Fri 4th May, 2.30pm: Public Performance, Cork City Library, Grand Parade Sat 5th May, 3pm: Guest Performance at Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, Cork City Hall Sun 6th May, 8pm: Closing Gala Concert 67

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Performing Groups Band of 1st Southern Brigade

IRELAND

as an actress include Maggie in Big Maggie, Bessie in The Plough and the Stars, Cassie in Cass Maguire, and Man of La Mancha. She has directed such works as Battle of the Sexes, Through the Wire, and the national premiere of Fame, plus several pantomimes. Catherine is part of an excellent staff in the Academy. CADA’s performance in the Choral Festival involves pupils, teachers and parents.

Ceoltoirí Chairbre

Conductor: Capt Brian Prendergast The Band of 1st Southern Brigade, one of three military bands of the Defence Forces School of Music, has been located at Collins Barracks, Cork, since 1926. The Band is an essential component of the military life of the Southern Brigade and renders musical honours at all military and State ceremonies. In addition to its military commitments, the band plays a major part in the musical and cultural life of the southern region of the country. It regularly appears at important events such as the Cork International Choral Festival, The Lord Mayor’s Gala Concert, Civic awards and Citizenship ceremonies. The band’s Schools Concert outreach programme is a much-appreciated part of the Defence Forces contribution to the community. The band have performed at music festivals and military tattoos in France, Germany, and Italy and in 2004 they participated in the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Toronto. The band has also performed with The Band of the Irish Guards at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast, and at Kneller Hall in London.

CADA Performing Arts

IRELAND

Director: Martin Power Tutors: Caroline Ni Chathasaigh / Brian McGillicuddy Ceoltóiri Chairbre is a group of highly talented young Irish traditional musicians, singers and dancers based in Maria Immaculata Community College, Dunmanway and Coláiste Choilm, Ballincollig, Co. Cork. The group are actively involved in the musical and social development of the community locally and also perform at many local and national events. Performances include an extensive and varied repertoire of Slow Airs, Planxtys and Dance Tunes, enhanced by individual and group dancing and traditional singing, both in Irish and English.

The Cork Irish Dance Company

IRELAND

Artistic Director: Catherine Mahon-Buckley CADA Performing Arts is a centre for performers and communicators to stretch themselves, learn new skills, and reach their full potential. CADA also comprises (a) a special needs integration programme – where performers’ gifts are highlighted; (b) a Youth Theatre Company and (c) a youth choir. CADA Performing Arts allows all its students to be stars. Catherine Mahon-Buckley, renowned director, teacher and actress, is Artistic Director of the Academy. Her credits

The Cork Irish Dance Company is the senior section of the Kiely-Walsh Academy of Irish Dancing. Directed by Miah Walsh and Maria Kiely Walsh, the company boasts an impressive array of world class dancers and is one of the leading Irish Dance schools in the country, having won many World, All-Ireland, and international titles. The company’s unique ability to create event-specific traditional and modern performances has remained central to their success. Cork Irish Dance has performed for many corporate and civic audiences including the Lord Mayor of Cork, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at the Wimbledon Ball in 2005. They have performed in many national and international festivals, travelling to countries such as England, France, Spain, Tunisia as well as parts of Australia and the USA. 69

festival sponsors & organisers Sponsorship

Partner Businesses

Irish Examiner RTÉ Lyric FM Evening Echo C103FM

Bodega @ St Peter’s Market Blarney Castle Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Crane Lane Theatre Fota Wildlife Park Luigi Malone’s Mutton Lane Scoozi’s Restaurant Sin É St Anne’s Church, Shandon The Electric Bar & Restaurant The Oval Vicarstown Inn

Hotel Sponsors

Donations

Clarion Hotel (Festival Hotel) Best Western Montenotte Gresham Metropole Hotel Hayfield Manor Imperial Hotel Jury’s Inn Lancaster Lodge Maldron Hotel Maryborough House Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa River Lee Hotel Silver Springs Moran Hotel

The Bowen Family Maura Deasy & Aidan O’Dwyer Dan Donovan Eileen Fitzpatrick The Mahon Family

Grant Aid The Arts Council Fáilte Ireland Cork City Council Cork County Council

Media Sponsors

Event Sponsors Cork Opera House Goethe-Institut Ireland Indaver Ireland

Sponsors AIB Bank Architectural & Metal Systems Aviva BAM Contractors Barry’s Tea Barter’s Travel Cllr. Mary Shields Clonakilty Black Pudding Cork Airport Authority Cork Libraries Network Deloitte Dermot O’Mahony Freight Force International Jerh. O’Connor & Sons Limited Keane’s Jewellers Musgrave Group O B Software O’Connor Funeral Homes O’Mahony Boylan Golden Penneys Port of Cork Company Project Management Watermans Printers Willis

Benefit in Kind A-Z Printers Bodega @ St Peter’s Market CIT Cork School of Music County Cork VEC School of Music Crowleys DFK Irish Distillers Irish Hotels Federation John Sheehan Photography J W O’Donovan Solicitors Secret Garden Studios Waterman’s Printers Triskel Arts Centre

Friends of the Festival Association of Irish Choirs Arthur & Marjorie Baker Bob & Phyllis Barry Marie T. Barry Ann Bracken & Ann O’Brien Helen Breen Michael Burrows Finbar & Anne Constant Jim & Lillian Corr Teresa Cotter & Mary Buckley David & Roslyn Cox Maura Deasy & Aidan O’Dwyer Philip & Joanne Desmond Andrew Desmond Daniel Donovan Gerard Dunne Kay Dunne Fr. Christopher Fitzgerald & Fr. Paul Kenny John & Jane Fitzpatrick Eileen Fitzpatrick Maeve Fleischmann Luciano Fontoni

Monica Gavin David Griffin Jean Horgan & Alison Keating Liam & Lola Ó Héigearta Jane Hurley & Mary Cusack Oliver & Joan Hynes Aiveen Kearney Liz Kelly Liam Lavery Padraic & Eileen Liston Diarmuid & Mary Long Federcio Lombardo & Silvia Ghinaglia Annette McClure Richard Keyes McDonnell & Wan Pei Kathleen Maher Pauline & Frank Matthews Maíre Mulcahy McCarthy Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Pat Nash Colin & Angela Nicholls John O’Brien Colum Ó Cléirigh John O’Conor Clare O’Flynn Massimo Paccarie & Marina Biefeni Olevano Frances Power & Catherine O’Connell Mairin & Ita Quill Mary T. Ryan Gavin Ryan Canon George Salter Mary Shorten & Domhnall Mac a Bháird Pat & Joan Sreenan Dr. Alicia St. Leger & Eve St. Leger Eveline St. Leger Thomas & Martha Walsh Alison Walsh Elizabeth T. Ware Barry Warren & Ann O’Reilly Susanna Williams

festival sponsors & organisers Festival Organisers

Arthur Baker Jim Corr Dan Donovan Ruth Fleischmann John Slye

Martin Hallahan Michael Heffernan Lorraine Kenny Ann Looney Patrick Mayes Colin McLean Eileen O’Shea Rachel O’Riordan Trish Quinn Veronica Radley Veronica Tadman Tara Sheridan Barry Twomey Robert Wedgebury

Festival Chairman

Afternoons in the Atrium

Gerard Breen

Angela Nicholls Colin Nicholls Jo Ann O’Connor

President The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of Cork Councillor Terry Shannon

Vice Presidents

Festival Director John Fitzpatrick

Festival Manager Joya Kuin

Ann Murphy (Co-ordinator) Staff of the Everyman Palace Theatre

Marketing & Administration

CD Production

Eimear Fitzgerald

John Fitzpatrick John O’Connor

Festival Secretary Anne Cummins

Festival Interns David Guiry Isabelle McCarthy Leona Murphy

Executive Board Neil Bowen Gerard Breen David Butler John Fitzpatrick Joe Kennelly Joya Kuin Constance Martin Catherine Mahon-Buckley Ltd Gen (Retd) Pat Nash Linda Nolan Mary Shields Victor Shine Valerie Sisk

Artistic Advisory Board John Fitzpatrick (Chairperson) Ann Healy-Mayes Colin Nicholls John O’Brien Mary Shorten

Adjudicators’ Officers Aisling Fitzpatrick (Co-ordinator) Harry Cullen

Box Office

Church Music Competition Ann Healy-Mayes (Co-ordinator) Michael Healy Carmel Coen Patricia Cotter Dónal Foley Declan Healy Carmel Healy John Keogh Donal Linehan Stephanie Loftus Patrick Mayes Nathan Mayes Robyn Mayes Michael O’Connell

Composers in the Classroom Frances O’Callaghan (Co-ordinator) Sam Barker Rosemary Beecher Ernestine Healy Paul Linehan Louise McCarthy Ian McDonagh Róisin McGrath Liz Meaney Ciara Ní Mhaolagáin Pat Sheehan Coláiste An Chraoibhín, Fermoy St Aloysius College, Carrigtwohill Gaelcholáiste Mhuire, Cork Regina Mundi College, Cork

Fáilteoirí Valerie Sisk (Co-ordinator) Louise Arrigan Bob Cummins Cay Cooney Robbie Crowley Elizabeth Daly Harvey Fitzgibbon Jackie Fitzgibbon JB Heine Mike Higgins Richard Keane Anne Kennedy Stephen Kennedy Therese Loesberg Frank Mackey Brian McDonagh Laura McGrath Moira McGuinness Dennis Murphy Linda Nolan Eileen O’Keeffe Íde O’Sullivan Julie Ann Ramsell Ursula Ramsell Nathalie Salgado Mary Sexton Victor Shine Naomi Sisk Ann Marie Spillane

Festival Club Caroline O’Sullivan

Floral Décor Eileen Fitzpatrick

Front-of-House Manager Neil Bowen

Graphic Design Martin Conlon for Great Graphics

Interval Receptions Catherine Mahon-Buckley (Co-ordinator) Breda O’Riordan (Asst. Co-ordinator) Eilis Byrne Marilyn Field Maria Gillivan Anne Higgins Margot Lyons Caroline Murphy Trisha O’Regan Ger O’Sullivan Una Ryan

Lighting Derry O’Shea

festival sponsors & organisers Merchandising

Secret Garden Studios cavs

Abagael Gowen Matthew Grogan Mary Hurley Eileen Kelly Robert Kennedy Mary Lapthorne Aloys Leyronnas Paddy Lynch Robyn Mayes, Eibhlin McGrath Charlotte McGrath Thora McGrath Bernadette Mullane Anne Murphy Tony Murphy Sarah Murphy-Kearney Eileen O’Connor Mags O’Connor Frances O’Donovan Mary O’Leary Sinead O’Mahony Niamh O’Mahony Megan O’Mahony Kay O’Riordan Saundra Osborne Brian Osborne Aoife Osborne Ray O’Shea Emma Power Charlie Saville Daniel Twomey Tom Walsh Aaron Wills

Stage Backdrop

Transport

Joe Stockdale

Victor Shine

Prize Draws

Stage Management

Trophies

Maria Hurley (Coordinator)

Tony Nolan (Stage Manager) Margot Nagle (Stage Manager) Eoin Breen (Asst. Stage Manager Ann O’Brien (Asst. Stage Manager) Marjorie Boyd Andrew Meaney Mary O’Brien Ingrid O’Shea Kathryn Sugrue

David J. Butler (Co-ordinator) Jason Cassells Alison Walsh

Conor Bowen (Co-ordinator) Meabh Ahern Orlaith Coleman Muireann Joyce Nathan Mayes Christopher McHugh Clare O’Keeffe

Official Accompanist Deirdre Long

Performance Venue Manager Gerard Breen

Performer Assembly Catherine Mahon-Buckley (Co-ordinator) Carol Downey (Assistant Co-ordinator) Stephanie Bowen Caroline Davitt Ann Duggan Mags Horgan Ann Hume Cait Moynihan

Presenters David Butler Cian Cotter Carol Daly Nicki Ffrench Davis Jane Fitzpatrick John Fitzpatrick Evelyn Grant Joanne Hayden Seán Ó Callanáin Eva O’Mahony

Protocol – Invitees Bernadette Kiely (Co-ordinator) Michelle Collins Jo O’Hora Patricia O’Sullivan Cliona Hinds

Protocol – Venue Constance Martin (Co-ordinator) Marie Barry Cathleen Bowen Helen Breen Kay Dunne Jane Fitzpatrick Frances Horgan Patricia Keane Gavin Murphy Roma Murphy Carol McLoughlin Breda O’Brien

Sally O’Brien Patricia Rice Amy Stewart

Rehearsal Venues Mary Pedder Daly

Schools Competitions Mary Shorten (Co-ordinator) Sr. Callie Mary Buckley Mary Coakley Mairín Cotter Teresa Cotter Deirdre Creagh Mary Cronin Jim Daly Sr. De Lourdes Nora Doolan Mary Fleming Frances McCann Catherine McCarthy Anne Murphy Catherine O’Connell Stella O’Keeffe Mary O’Malley Anne O’Regan Ann Roche Margaret Tobin

Sound Engineering

Stewards Aidan Kennedy (Co-ordinator) Leanne Batchelor Bernie Bowen Richard Breen Ann Buckley Elaine Buckley Maurice Bunyan Jer Crean Catherine Cronin Frank de Lacey Mary Gleeson

Get Around Guide

Cork The festival city… The Festival in full flow sees choirs and festival-goers alike enjoy five busy days and nights of the best of choral and vocal music on the international scene. Ensure you make the most of your visit to Cork by leaving room in your schedule to experience some of the city’s vibrant culture and heritage. From delicious local and international cuisine, to its rich heritage and history, and its buzzing nightlife; the city has something for everyone, and was recently named one of the top 10 cities to visit by Lonely Planet. To help you on your way we have compiled the Get Around Guide, your gateway to the city’s best bars, restaurants and attractions, as well as top heritage sites in the region. What’s more, all of our partner businesses offer great discounts and deals exclusively to Get Around Guide holders, ensuring you the best entertainment at prices to match.

Photo: Tony O’Connell Photography

Get Around Guide

Sights Blarney Castle Want to explore the beautiful Irish surroundings without straying too far from the city? Blarney Castle and Gardens are located just a 15min drive or 20min public bus ride away! The impressive Castle, built in 1446, is most famous for its Blarney Stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it. Equally worth exploring, are the beautiful grounds around the Castle, with Blarney House taking in over 60 acres of parklands, lake, gardens, avenues and arboretums, as well as housing an impressive array of tree species. Don’t miss the Rock Close, which is a mystical place on the site of an ancient druidic settlement. Here you will find a trail that leads you under groves of gnarled oak and yew trees to the Dolmen, Wishing Steps, Witch’s Kitchen and other features. Other attractions to be found in the grounds include The Poison Garden, The Fern Garden, Old Ice House, Climbing Plant Wall, The Bog Garden and waterfalls, The Pinetum, and the new Irish Garden. ENTRY: ¤11 (on presentation of Choral Festival Badge or Get Around Guide) / ¤9 Conc. / Children ¤4 OPEN: 9am to sundown AT: Blarney, Co. Cork / Tel: 021 4385252 / www.blarneycastle.ie

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park For the perfect daytrip, don’t miss one of Ireland’s premier visitor attractions; the 15th century Bunratty Castle and 19th century Bunratty Folk Park, located just 1hr and 40min north of Cork City. The Castle, built in 1425, is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Restored to its former medieval splendour, it now contains antique furnishings, tapestries, and works of art. At night the castle is the impressive setting for Medieval Banquets and the Folk Park’s Corn Barn hosts the Traditional Irish Night, made complete with storytelling, traditional music and Irish dancing! Bunratty Folk Park, set on 26 acres, is a stunning re-creation of 19th century Ireland; featuring farmhouses, a church, a magical walled garden and village street complete with pub, Post Office, a school house and a variety of shops. ENTRY: Daytrip Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: ¤7.70 p.p. (On presentation of your Choral Festival Badge or Get Around Guide). Bunratty Medieval Castle Banquets (5.30pm & 8.45pm sittings) - ¤40 p.p. Traditional Irish Night at Bunratty Folk Park (7pm sitting): ¤40 p.p. (Reservations necessary for banquet and Irish Night and reference to Get around Guide) OPEN: Daily 9am - 5.30pm (last admission to castle 4pm). AT: Bunratty, Co. Clare / Tel: 061 360788 / www.shannonheritage.com

Get Around Guide Fota Wildlife Park Explore Ireland’s wildest attraction! Fota Wildlife Park is Cork’s most visited tourist attraction and is home to over 70 species from around the world. Unlike an ordinary zoo, Fota brings you eye to eye with a mind boggling array of animals & birds, many left free to roam around you! So whether it's a kangaroo crossing your path or a ring-tailed lemur leaping down from a tree, this park is sure to leave an impression. Don’t miss your chance to see endangered species such as the Rothschild giraffe, European Bison, Lion Tailed Macaque and Scimitar Horned Oryx, most of them without the obstacle of fences. Or check out the amazing Cheetah Run, at 3pm each day! The Park is set on 70 acres of the scenic Fota Island in the heart of Cork Harbour, only a 15min drive or train ride from Cork City. Also worth a visit is the beautiful Fota House, Arboretum & and Gardens, located alongside Fota Wildlife Park, which is free entry. ENTRY: ¤11.50 (on presentation of Choral Festival badge or Get Around Guide) / Conc. ¤7.50 OPEN: Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm; Sun 10.30am - 6pm AT: Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork / Tel: 021 4812678 / www.fotawildlife.ie

St Anne Church – Shandon Bells No trip to Cork would be complete without a visit to the iconic clock tower which overlooks the city. The famous Shandon Bells, housed in the tower of the Church of St. Anne, first rang out in 1752 and have been a vital part of Cork life ever since. Climb the limestone and red sandstone tower to take in the stunning views, try your hand at bell-ringing, and discover the identities of the Four-Faced Liar and the Goldie Fish. Our uniquely beautiful Shandon Sunrise event (Tuesday 1st May, 6am) welcomes the first day of summer from this historic site. ENTRY: ¤6 Adult / Conc. ¤5. Two people may enter for the price of one on presentation of Festival Badge. OPEN: Mon - Sat, 11am - 3pm AT: Church Street, Cork / Tel: 021 4505906

Get Around Guide

Restaurants LUIGI MALONES Famous for its original décor inspired by visits to Les Deux Margot’s in Paris and the Art Deco district of South Beach in Miami, Luigi Malones is one of the most visited restaurants in Ireland. Luigi Malones menu represents an array of dishes from around the world, served in traditional ware. Luigi's offers varied choice of house specialties, pastas, pizzas, fajitas, steaks and great selection of wines, beers & cocktails. The staff are always welcoming, the service excellent, the portions are large and the food is scrumptious. Make sure to take a picture with Luigi’s famous Kings Cross Station clock from St Pancras and share it on Luigi Malones Facebook Page! MENU: Lunch & Soft Drink ¤9.75, Mon - Fri, 12 - 5pm (selection of 30 dishes!). Festival 2 course Set Menu ¤21.95 anytime all week. OPEN: From 10am - 9.30pm AT: 1 - 2 Emmet Place, Cork / Tel: 021 4278877 / www.luigimalones.com

SCOOZI’S Bang in the middle of town, Scoozi’s welcoming staff serve from 8am till late, dishing up everything from handmade burgers and pizzas, to pasta, steaks, fish and chicken dishes - all cooked with love and care. A family friendly restaurant with a homely yet quirky dècor - Scoozi’s philosophy is to serve inexpensive food without compromising on quality. Chefs start at dawn each day to bake the freshest cakes, scones and pastries as well as strawberry pavlova and yummy cheesecakes. Seating 145, the restaurant is always buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere, and for early riser there’s a big breakfast menu too. MENU: Check out www.scoozis.ie for their extensive breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert and kid’s menus! OPEN: Mon - Thurs, 8am - 10pm; Fri-Sat 8am - 10.30pm; Sun 12 - 9pm. AT: 2 - 5 Winthrop Avenue, Cork / Tel: 021 4275077 / www.scoozis.ie

The ELECTRIC BAR & RESTAURANT Day and night, Cork’s ELECTRIC sets the scene for you to indulge in Europe’s passion for socialising through food and drink. This scene is set, with a backdrop of the recently renovated Art Deco building perched on the banks of the river Lee, for you to play out the drama of life. The first floor restaurant and terrace with its unrivalled views of St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral and the prestigious South Mall, affords visiting tourists, corporate clients and proud Corkonians a lasting impression of our great city. Owner and head chef, Kevin O’Regan’s commitment to Irish food is reflected in his weekly menus which change with the seasons and the availability of local produce. MENU: Check out www.electriccork.com for their extensive Bar & Restaurant menus. Lunch Offer: Starter, Main & either Dessert or glass of wine ¤19. Early Bird: 2 Courses ¤19 OPEN: Restaurant: Mon - Wed, 5.30 - 10pm; Thu - Sun 12.30 - 10pm. The restaurant keeps just 20% of their tables available for walk-in customers, making reservations recommended. While the restaurant is only able to cater for parties of up to 14 people, the Bar can facilitate more people. Children only allowed until 6.30pm. Bar: Mon - Sun, 10am - late for everything from scones, soups, sandwiches, tarts and tapas. Children only allowed until 6.30pm. Reservations not required. AT: 41 South Mall, Cork / Tel: 021 4222990 / www.electriccork.com 77

Get Around Guide

Hotels CLARION HOTEL The Clarion Hotel is Cork’s premier four-star city centre hotel and is superbly located; overlooking Cork’s famous River Lee and facing the Choral Festival’s main venue, the City Hall. The award winning hotel is also just a 5-minute stroll from shopping, entertainment and the city’s premier business district. Aside from its 198 bedrooms, the Clarion Hotel hosts a Penthouse Suite and meeting rooms as well as the Sanovitae Health & Fitness Club and Essence Spa. The hotel’s dining room serves a delicious full Irish breakfast buffet daily. Guests can also indulge in a full Asian menu in the atmospheric Kudos Bar, or enjoy a superb selection of snacks and coffees in the Atrium Lounge. A real choral-hub, Festival Weekend at the Clarion Hotel boast a range of exciting events, including the popular Afternoons in the Atrium and the Festival Club! AT: Lapps Quay, Cork / Tel: 021 4224900 / www.clarionhotelcorkcity.com

RIVER LEE HOTEL The River Lee Hotel is the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the city of Cork and everything it has to offer during Festival time; from the exciting range of choral events, great music pubs and bustling markets, to the excellent restaurants, sights and attractions. Newly refurbished and a delight to the eye, the River Lee Hotel is a luxurious four-star hotel with a range of facilities and amenities that are second to none. From the superb fitness centre and magnificent Urban Escape spa, to the culinary delights of the Weir Bistro and the conviviality of their friendly, local bar, you’ll find it all at The River Lee Hotel. AT: Western Road, Cork / Tel: 021 493 7713 / www.doylecollection.com

IMPERIAL HOTEL Located in the heart of Cork city the Imperial Hotel is the most central Cork hotel. This 4* hotel is located in the business district less than a minutes’ walk to the main shopping district, music and cultural venues. The contemporary luxury of this 4* hotel sits comfortably alongside the charm and opulence of a by-gone age. The 4* Imperial Hotel boasts luxury hotel accommodation in Cork offering guests 130 beautifully appointed rooms which are spacious and inviting. So choose the Imperial for a wonderful Cork getaway. AT: South Mall, Cork / Tel: 021 4274040 / www.flynnhotels.com

MALDRON HOTEL The Maldron Hotel and Leisure Club is one of the best located hotels in Cork City from where you can to enjoy the Choral Festival. It is wonderfully located in the heart of Cork’s historic cultural quarter, nestled by the famous Shandon Bells and on the doorstep of the city’s main thoroughfare, St. Patrick’s Street. With comfortable accommodation combined with efficient friendly service from our renowned staff and a superior product at an affordable price, your stay with us will be unforgettable. AT: 1 John Redmond Street, Cork / Tel: 021 4529200 / www.maldronhotels.com/hotel-cork/

NOTES

day by day ❚ GALA CONCERTS

❚ FRINGE CONCERTS

❚ COMPETITIONS

Hwa Chong Choir

6am, Church of St. Anne, Shandon (Shandon bells)

Shandon Sunrise featuring Cathal Ó Baoill and CO. DOWN

& Voci

Nuove

❚ EDUCATION

❚ CHURCH VISITS

3pm, Douglas Library

TUESDAY 1 May

Cathal Óg

❚ CHORAL TRAIL

SINGAPORE

5pm, Blarney Castle*

Yoav Choir

ISRAEL

CORK

Admission: Free

6pm, Lewis Glucksman Gallery, UCC

Värmlands Nations Choir

WEDNESDAY 2 May Cork City Hall

National Competition for Schools 11.15am Section 1 Primary School Choirs 1.30pm Section 3 Mixed Voice post-primary School Choirs Admission: ¤5 8pm, Cork City Hall Cork International Choral Festival and Goethe-Institut Irland present

Mozart • Requiem

featuring the Goethe-Institut Choir, Orchestra of St. Cecilia & Soloists, conducted by John Dexter Admission: ¤30/¤20/¤15

SWEDEN

8pm, Cork Opera House Cork International Choral Festival and Cork Opera House present

The King’s Singers Admission: ¤42.50/¤35/¤25

FRIDAY 4 may 1.10pm, Triskel Christchurch, South Main St.

Choirs in Christchurch featuring Ensemble vocal GERMANY & Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School SWEDEN Admission: Free 1.10pm, Curtis Auditorium, CIT Cork School of Music

THURSDAY 3 May 10am - 4.30pm, Cork City Hall

National Competition for Schools Section 2 Equal Voice Post-Primary School Choirs Admission: ¤5 11am, The Masonic Hall, Tuckey St.

Vocal Ensemble of Risbergska High School SWEDEN

South Wind featuring Combined CSM Wind Ensemble & The Band of the 1 Southern Brigade Admission: Free 2.30pm, CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory

Alma Choir USA 2.30pm, Cork City Library, Grand Parade

Yoav Choir ISRAEL 4pm, Cork Vision Centre, North Main St.

11.30am, Cork City Library, Grand Parade

Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club THE PHILIPPINES

Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec SLOVENIA

5pm, Bodega Restaurant, Cornmarket St.

1.10pm, Triskel Christchurch, South Main St.

Choirs at Christchurch featuring Primorska Academic Choir Vinko Vodopivec SLOVENIA & Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club THE PHILIPPINES Admission: Free 1.10pm, Curtis Auditorium, CIT Cork School of Music

Music for Two Pianos featuring Teresa Trevisan & Flavio Zaccaria TRIESTE, ITALY Admission: Free

Ensemble vocal

7.30pm, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

The National Chamber Choir of Ireland ‘An Irish Colloquy’ Admission: ¤20

10.30pm, Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Anne (North Cathedral)

Evocations:

The Gentlemen Singers CZECH REPUBLIC

2.30pm, AIB Bank, South Mall

Yoav Choir

GERMANY

Admission: ¤15

ISRAEL

84 *Please note that while the performances are free of cost, regular entry fees apply for entry to Blarney Castle.

day by day saturDAY 5 may

sunDAY 6 may

9.30am, Cork City Hall

10am, Stack Theatre, CIT Cork School of Music

Premier National Competitions

Conductors Masterclass with Pasi Hyökki

Admission: ¤5

Observers Fee: ¤12/¤10

10am, Stack Theatre, CIT Cork School of Music

FINLAND

10am, Cork City Hall

44th Seminar on New Choral Music: From Composition to Performance

National Open Competition and National Competition for Youth Choirs

Admission: Free

Admission: ¤5

12pm, Cork City Hall

10am, Various Churches

The Big Sing with John O’Brien

Church Visits

Admission: Free

See page 39 for details.

1pm, The Electric, South Mall

Portadown Male Voice Choir

2pm, Cork City Hall ireland

1.30pm, Curtis Auditorium, CIT Cork School of Music

Madrigal ‘75 Vocal Ensemble Admission: ¤10/¤7 2pm - 5.30pm, The Clarion Hotel, Lapp’s Quay

Afternoons in the Atrium Various national and international choirs Admission: Free 3pm, The Electric, South Mall

4 in a Bar

National Competition for Light, Jazz and Popular Music Admission: ¤5 2pm, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

National Competition for Church Music Admission: Free 2pm - 5.30pm, The Clarion Hotel, Lapp’s Quay

Afternoons in the Atrium Various national and international choirs Admission: Free

ireland

5.15pm, Cork City Hall 3pm, Cork City Hall

Fleischmann International Trophy Competition SESSION I Admission: ¤5 afternoon only ¤25/¤20/¤15 (Combined entry to 3pm & 8pm sessions) 6pm, The Electric, South Mall

4 in a Bar

ireland

6pm, Various Churches

Church Visits See page 39 for details.

6pm, Ballyferriter Church, Ballyferriter, Co Kerry The Gentlemen Singers CZECH REPUBLIC 8pm, Cork City Hall

Awards Ceremony Admission: Free See page 50 for more details.

6pm, Church of St. Anne, Shandon with kind permission of the Rector of Shandon

The Office of Compline Admission: Free 8pm, Cork City Hall

Closing Gala Concert Admission: ¤30/¤20/¤15 10pm - 2am Clarion Hotel, Lapp’s Quay

Festival Club Admission: ¤5 See page 81 for details.

Fleischmann International Trophy Competition SESSION 2 Admission: ¤25/¤20/¤15 (Combined entry to 3pm & 8pm sessions) 10pm - 2am, Clarion Hotel, Lapp’s Quay

Festival Club Admission: ¤5 See page 81 for details.

festival features

Don’t Miss! festival club The Festival fun doesn’t stop when the Gala’s end – it simply moves to the Festival Club at the Clarion! It’s the perfect place to kick back and relax with festival choirs and guests, whether you’re in the mood to sing, dance, drink or mingle your way into the small hours. WHEN: Saturday 5 May & Sunday 6 May, 10pm - 2pm AT: Clarion Hotel

the big sing with John O’Brien With the ambition of ensuring everybody gets the opportunity to sing in the Festival, we invite you to come and take part in The Big Sing 2012, the festival’s big and bright participatory singing event. The Big Sing is open to everyone and admission is free. There’s no preparation necessary – just sing from, and for, the heart! WHEN: Saturday 5 May, 12.45pm AT: Cork City Hall

afternoons in the atrium Afternoons in the Atrium provides a weekend of energetic and entertaining performances by national and international choirs in the fresh, modern setting of the Clarion Hotel, Lapp’s Quay. It’s the perfect setting for families and festival goers who want to relax in the hotel’s bright atrium and experience the festival atmosphere in full flow. WHEN: Saturday 5 May & Sunday 6 May, 2pm – 5.30pm AT: Clarion Hotel

festival merchandise Looking for a gift to bring home for friends and family or a Festival souvenir just for you? Look no further than the Festival’s merchandise shop, which is located in the foyer of Cork City Hall throughout the Festival. From bags and CDs to teddy bears and t-shirts, our friendly staff would be delighted to help you choose your souvenir of a wonderful Festival week! WHEN: Daily AT: Cork City Hall

ÂŠ Map reproduced courtesy of Great Graphics.

FESTIVAL MAP