Limerick City and County Council Arts Office is delighted to announce the programme for the 2026 Castleconnell Autumn Concert Series.
Presented by RTÉ Lyric FM and Opera Workshop’s Shirley Keane, and hosted in the beautiful setting of All Saints Church, Castleconnell, this year’s series offers audiences a varied and engaging programme of classical and contemporary music featuring some of Ireland’s finest musicians.
The series opens on 25 August with a performance by the Limerick Wind Ensemble, featuring Mozart’s Divertimento for Two Clarinets and Bassoon, Serenade No. 12 in C Minor and Krommer’s Partita in F. The Limerick-based ensemble comprises Coral O’Sullivan and Mark Cooney (oboe), Sheila Hickey and Celia O’Donoghue (clarinet), Michael Dooley and Brian Prendergast (bassoon), and Stephen Crowley and Noel Galvin (French horn).
On 29 September, acclaimed duo Aoife Ní Bhriain and Cormac McCarthy will present a programme that blends Irish traditional music with classical, jazz and contemporary influences. Recognised as two of Ireland’s most respected and versatile musicians, they will showcase their distinctive musical partnership and deep connection to Ireland’s rich musical heritage.
The 20 October concert features Musici Ireland, with Beth McNinch (viola), Eamonn Mulhall (tenor), Kerenza Peacock (violin), Katie Tertell (cello), Sharon Carty (mezzo-soprano) and Róisín O’Grady (soprano). Their programme will include works by Arvo Pärt, Libby Croad, Henry Purcell and Linda Buckley, alongside a new composition, Stabat Mater, by Deborah Pritchard.
The season concludes on 24 November with a performance by the Gealán Quartet, featuring works by Sam Perkin, Turina, Puccini, Shostakovich and Mendelssohn.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, welcomed the announcement of the series, saying:
“The Castleconnell Autumn Concert Series has become an important part of Limerick’s cultural calendar, bringing world-class musicians to an intimate and historic setting in one of our most beautiful county towns. These concerts provide audiences with the opportunity to experience exceptional performances close to home while supporting the continued growth of arts and culture across our communities.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr Tom Ruddle, said:
“This annual series demonstrates the value of making high-quality cultural experiences accessible throughout the county. The programme celebrates both established and emerging talent and offers something for music lovers of all ages to enjoy.”
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, added:
“Limerick City and County Council is proud to support initiatives that enrich the cultural life of our communities. The Castleconnell Autumn Concert Series continues to provide a platform for outstanding performers while enhancing access to the arts in a unique and welcoming environment.”
Etain McCooey, Arts Officer, Limerick City and County Council, added:
“We have a wonderful programme of music for this year’s series in the beautiful All Saints Church in Castleconnell. Our aim in presenting these concerts is to give the people of Limerick the opportunity to enjoy live classical music, performed by highly skilled musicians at a beautiful venue that is both intimate and local.”
All concerts take place in All Saints Church, Castleconnell. Further details and ticket information are available from Limerick Arts Office.