Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) Chair, Aibhlín McCrann, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the National University of Ireland (NUI) in recognition of her outstanding arts leadership, musicianship, and lifelong dedication to music in Ireland and especially to Irish harping, and to the community of players, teachers, and makers who sustain its tradition.
A cultural leader and communications expert, as well as a gifted performer, arranger, and teacher, Aibhlín has devoted her life to celebrating Ireland’s national instrument and enriching its place at the heart of Irish culture.
As Chair of the Irish Chamber Orchestra, Aibhlín has been a visionary and transformative force, championing the orchestra’s artistic ambition, expanding its reach, and strengthening its role within Ireland’s cultural landscape. Her strategic insight and steadfast advocacy have guided the ICO through a period of remarkable growth, innovation and creativity, ensuring that the orchestra continues to flourish as one of Ireland’s most dynamic and forward-looking ensembles.
ICO CEO Gerard Keenan said: “It is impossible to reflect on the success and spirit of our orchestra without acknowledging the remarkable leadership of our Chair. Her stewardship has strengthened the orchestra at every turn, steering us strategically through times of growth and change, ensuring that every decision served not only the music we make, but the community we build together.”
Beyond her work with ICO, Aibhlín has served on the boards of many leading national arts organisations including the Irish Traditional Music Archive and the Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon, where she was Deputy Chair from 2012 to 2016. She also serves on the board of glór Arts Centre in Ennis, Co. Clare, and has been reappointed to the Governing Authority of the University of Limerick, where she also serves on the Board of University Concert Hall.
The Irish Chamber Orchestra continues to captivate audiences at home and abroad, proudly calling the University of Limerick its home. With the ongoing support of The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon, the ICO remains at the forefront of Irish and international music-making.