When Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) welcomes back the phenomenal Carolin Widmann, expect a night full of spark, connection and pure musical joy in the Brothers Haydn at UCH, Limerick and the Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin on 14 and 15 May.
Widmann’s sound can be tender and intimate one moment, dazzling and fiery the next. Audiences who have experienced her with ICO before will know the sense of excitement she brings to the stage. There’s chemistry with the orchestra and a shared sense of adventure that makes every performance feel alive.
At the centre of this programme is Joseph Haydn’s Violin Concerto No. 4, music that bubbles with wit and charm. In Widmann’s hands, it’s playful, conversational and full of personality.
ICO shines a light on the wonderfully inventive but seldom heard Michael Haydn and his Symphony MH 287, which is bursting with humour, sparkle and youthful energy. It’s fresh, surprising and completely engaging. Hearing the two brothers’ side by side reveals a fascinating musical legacy. The highlight is Joseph Haydn’s “Farewell” Symphony which is elegant, mischievous and unexpectedly moving. Its closing moments never fail to surprise audiences, creating one of those magical shared experiences that only live performance can offer.
This is what Irish Chamber Orchestra does best. It breaks down barriers, opens doors, reminding us that classical music isn’t something distant or formal. It is vibrant, emotional and for everyone.
Whether you’re a devoted concertgoer or simply curious, this is an invitation to come in, listen closely and feel something different at UCH, Limerick and the Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin on 14 and 15 May.
Thanks to the valued support of The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Irish Chamber Orchestra continues to delight, surprise and inspire audiences at the University of Limerick and beyond where every concert is an invitation to connect.