Posts filed under 'Live Music'
If you are looking for a traditional Dublin pub, there are few better choices than the Lower Deck. Situated canalside at Portobello, the Lower Deck has benefited from the infill operation at the harbour.
The pleasant paved civic area that has been created enhances the Lower Deck’s environment and also provides some shelter if you are a smoker.
While the harbour may have changed dramatically outside, inside the ambience in the Lower Deck is just as gracious, homely and comfortable as ever.
The black and white pictures of old Dublin at the entrance to the pub set the scene. The panelled mirrors and the dominance of timber have resisted the advance of modernity, but for one important exception – the TV screens. This intrusion is allowed because the clientele love their sport – especially the GAA teams Tipperary and Dublin.
It is an ideal venue for visitors seeking a live music scene and a party night out. A great range of musical tastes is catered for, with sing-along cabaret shows, plenty of rock music and traditional Irish music.
Inside or out life is good on the Lower Deck.
January 31st, 2008
Superstar diva Celine Dion will be appearing in Dublin on Friday 30 May 2008 as part of her European tour. She will perform at Croke Park, accompanied by operatic pop group Il Divo.
Tickets go on sale on Thursday 15th November, and are sure to sell out quickly. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Celine is one of the biggest selling artists in the world, with chart topping hits including “My Heart Will Go On” and “The Power of Love”.
‘Taking Chances’, is Celine Dion’s first English studio album in over 3 years and includes the single of the same name. The album is available now.
Celine’s 2008 European tour includes:
2 May - Manchester - M.E.N Arena
6 May - London - 02 Arena
13 May - Antwerp - Sportpaleis
14 May - Antwerp - Sportpaleis
16 May - Antwerp - Sportpaleis
19 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
20 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
21 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
24 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
25 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
27 May - Paris - Omnisports de Bercy
30 May - Dublin - Croke Park
02 June - Amsterdam - Amsterdam Arena
05 June - Copenhagen - Parken
07 June - Stockholm - Globe
24 June - Zurich - Hallenstadion
09 July - Geneva - Stade de Genève
November 14th, 2007
One of rock’s most recognisable and enduring personalities, Meat Loaf comes to Belfast’s Odyssey Arena for one night only on November the 22nd for what’s sure to be another earth-shaking epic extravaganza of a show.
Meat Loaf’s chequered career has had its ups and downs through the years, but his live performances have consistently drawn armies of devoted fans and his talents as a stage performer remain undimmed.
The Three Bats tour showcases the third instalment of his record-breaking Bat Out Of Hell album trilogy. The Bat trilogy began thirty years ago in 1977, and has been wildly successful ever since – incredibly, the original Bat Out Of Hell album has never left the top 200 UK album chart since its initial release!
Mixing classic favourites with fresh new tracks from the latest album, the Three Bats tour chronicles thirty years of timeless rock hits in a theatrical spectacular of sound and vision that’s guaranteed to take you to hell and back in one unforgettable night!
Get your tickets now to see Meat Loaf in action.
October 26th, 2007
To celebrate the launch of his latest single ‘Even Though You’re Gone’ Paul Hourican is playing a special one-off date at Crawdaddy on Tuesday 6th November.
The launch party includes Paul Hourican playing a full band show, along with special guest Colm Lynch. Tickets are priced at just €10 at the door and doors open at 8 PM.
‘Even Though You’re Gone’ is available from Friday 26th October on 3-track CD and download. The CD features a previously unreleased acoustic version of ‘In A Funny Way’, performed on Dublin’s Phantom FM.
Be sure to arrive early at Crawdaddy for the launch party, which is sure to go down a storm.
You can also catch Paul Hourican live at:
21.10.07
Danny Byrne’s, Mullingar
Solo Performance
25.10.07
Time, Naas.
Supporting Aslan
28.10.07
Dublin, Whelans.
Supporting Kinetiks
15.11.07
The Stables, Mullingar.
Solo Performance
16.11.07
Roisin Dubh, Galway.
Solo Performance
October 19th, 2007
I’m just looking I’m not buying, I’m just looking keeps me smiling – yes the Stereophonics are back after two years away and will be touring Ireland.
They will be playing in Belfast on 27 November, Killarney on 28 November and Dublin on 29 November. Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster.
The boys’ fantastic sixth album, Pull the Pin, written by Kelly Jones includes the lead single ‘It means nothing’ and will be released on 15 October. The album can be pre-ordered from HMV.
This tour really will be amazing – with so much energy stored up for two years, I’m sure they will blow us all away.
UK and Ireland Tour Dates - 2007
Mon 29 Oct Lincoln, University of Lincoln SU
Tue 30 Oct Dundee, Caird Hall
Sun 4 Nov Bournemouth, International Centre
Mon 5 Nov Brighton, Brighton Centre
Wed 7 Nov Manchester, MEN Arena
Thu 8 Nov Hull, Arena
Fri 9 Nov Sheffield, Hallam FM Arena
Sun 11 Nov Birmingham, NEC
Mon 12 Nov Birmingham, NEC
Tue 13 Nov Nottingham, Nottingham Arena
Thu 15 Nov London, Wembley Arena
Fri 16 Nov London, Wembley Arena
Sun 18 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Mon 19 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Tue 20 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Thu 22 Nov Newcastle, Metro Radio Arena
Sat 24 Nov Aberdeen, AECC
Sun 25 Nov Glasgow, SECC
Tue 27 Nov Belfast, Odyssey
Wed 28 Nov Killarney, INEC
Thu 29 Nov Dublin, RDS
October 8th, 2007
Kanye West may be the biggest name in hip hop for most of the world, but based on record sales, 50 Cent is the man in Ireland.
50 Cent vowed to stop making solo albums if Kanye West’s Graduation sold more than his own album, Curtis. In most countries, 50 Cent has been blown out of the water, except for Ireland.
So is Kanye West bringing his excellent live show to Dublin and Belfast to help him get a clean sweep?
He certainly deserves it. Kanye West’s brand of hip hop is more imaginative and political than Fiddy’s gangsta fodder.
In fact, Kanye West is a controversial figure in the US, never afraid to criticise the government or the macho posturing of the hip hop community.
If you haven’t heard Kanye West yet, this live show is a great chance to discover his music. Kanye puts on a great live show, and even if 50 Cent is more popular in Ireland, tickets are sure to sell fast.
Find out more about Kanye West in Dublin or Belfast. Or get tickets for Kanye West live from Ticketmaster.
September 24th, 2007
Hard Working Class Heroes are true heroes as they bring an action-packed live music event to the Pod in Dublin to celebrate their 5th birthday.
The festival is run in conjunction with Bud Rising and will see new bands from across Ireland showcase their talents at this unique live music event. In keeping with the theme of “5” the gigs will be held at five separate venues in Dublin’s Pod.
Two of the 300 capacity rooms haven’t yet been named and HWCH are running a competition to win two weekend passes and fame on their website if you email: info@hwch.net with your ideas (and room names in the subject line).
Hard Working Class Heroes is the only festival dedicated to Irish bands and the place to see the next big stars or to support your local favourites.
Tickets for each night are €17.45 each and available for:
Friday 28 September
Saturday 29 September
Sunday 30 September
Or get tickets to all 3 events for only €33.60 and try hard to fit in as many live gigs as you can while in Dublin!
August 30th, 2007
Donny Osmond gives a live music performance here in Dublin on 30 October at Vicar Street. This is one live music event in Dublin that will draw huge fans from across Ireland.
Donny is sure to enjoy himself in Dublin’s fair city where the girls are so pretty! Although the girls that idolised him as a teen are likely to be your mum or your granny, so why not give them a treat with tickets to see Donny in Dublin.
Book tickets for Donny Osmond’s live gig in Dublin now at Dublin Events.
For some reason I always want to say Donny Osbourne when I say Donny’s name, it’s a bit of a tongue twister for me. It probably stems from the Pepsi Twist advert that starred Donny and his sister Marie turned into Ozzy’s son and daughter!
See the ad here, on YouTube, Ozzy is hilarious!
As well as appearing in TV adverts, Donny has enjoyed a varied career, from a singing sensation (starting out at the age of four) as part of “The Osmonds”, to a duo with his sister Marie as a musical act and then co-host of the Donny and Marie Show in the 70s.
Now approaching 50, Donny continues his career starring in musicals and touring, charming audiences throughout the world. So book tickets for the gig in Dublin now and be prepared to be charmed!
August 29th, 2007
Rihanna’s live music events take place in Dublin on Sunday 2 December and Belfast on Monday 3 December, and as they’re both indoor gigs there’s no need to bring along an umbrella. Mind you the last gig I was at I got soaked with a pint of beer, so standing under someone’s umbrella-ella-ella-ella-ella, eh-oh- oh oh oh, mightn’t be such a bad idea after aaaall.
Book tickets for Rihanna’s gig in Dublin
Book tickets for the live event in Belfast
Umbrella was the theme tune for many a summer festival and extremely catchy! The latest single Shut Up and Drive is equally as catchy and set to be the theme tune for a drive.
I was watching the making of the Shut Up And Drive video with great pleasure on MTV earlier this week.
I really like all of the effort that went into sourcing the classic cars not to mention the young ladies washing them (ahem) of course I was looking at the cars, not the ladies, don’t mistake me for some kind of pervert!
The video is as slick as Rihanna’s new hairdo – have a look for yourself.
Enjoy the gigs!
August 22nd, 2007
UB40 get back to their reggae roots almost 30 years after they first got together to perform 3 live gigs in Ireland in November. Live music performances take place on and at:
Ali Campbell’s warm voice will melt Irish hearts as UB40 belt out old favourites like Red, Red, Wine and I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You.
They will also perform newer music from the album Who You fighting For, a return of UB40’s political voice mixed in with meaningful lyrics and beautiful beats.
UB40 are amazingly talented and their unique reggae sound, with influences from Jamaican Ska to Elvis, is what has made their career so successful.
Here’s a live music clip of Kiss and Say Goodbye – from Who You Fighting For with Ali at his soulful best
Facts about UB40
- They formed in the summer of 1978.
- UB40 began as mates who knew each other from various colleges and schools across Birmingham.
- Birmingham is their home town.
- UB40 stands for Unemployment Benefit Form 40.
- Before they even picked up an instrument, Ali Campbell and Brian Travers travelled around Birmingham promoting the band, putting up UB40 posters to promote the band!
- £4,000 in compensation paid out to Ali Campbell after a bar brawl paid for the band’s instruments (even though few knew how to play!).
- Ali and Robin Campbell’s father is Ian Campbell, a popular folk musician.
- They made it big when Chrissie Hynde heard them play in a pub in Birmingham and asked them to be her support act.
- John Peel was so impressed with the group’s first demo tape that he invited them to perform on his Radio One show in 1980.
- Their injection of life into many old Jamaican hits resulted in many musicians’ and producers’ renewed popularity and income. (Source: Wikipedia)
- UB40 named their first album Signing Off because they were ‘signing off from the dole’ in other words, getting a job. The album even had a reproduction of the unemployment benefit card on the cover with the words, “Signing Off” stamped on it.
- In 1985, the group celebrated a hit single with I Got You Babe, recorded with Chrissie Hynde.
- UB40’s first single, a double coupling of King, a song for Martin Luther King and Food for Thought, a song about third-world poverty, was the first record to reach the UK top ten without the backing of a major record label.
- The band formed their own record company in 1980 called Dep International.
- In August 1983, UB40 achieved their first No.1 single in the UK.
Red Red Wine was released ahead of the album Labour of Love, which went straight to No.1 upon its release in September 1983.
- The Labour Of Love Album, produced and co-written by saxophonist Brian Travers, was made into a short movie and features most of the music from the album and some members of the band.
- UB40 were the first British band to tour Russia.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You was the bands third No.1. It proved to be the second top selling single of 1993.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You reached No.1 in 17 other countries around the world.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You was initially featured in the Sharon Stone film Sliver and spent seven weeks at number one in the USA.
- Promises & Lies entered the UK charts at No.1 and stayed there
for 7 weeks which was the longest time for any album to have stayed at the
top in 1993.
- Swing Low was recorded with the multi-cultural choir United Colours of Sound and became the official anthem for the 2003 English Rugby Team.
- Promises And Lies was the inspiration for a musical performed by the Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company in 2006.
- Sparta Florida Music Group started legal action against heiress Paris Hilton and Warner Chappell Music in June 2007 for plagiarism due to similarities between the song Kingston Town, originally by Lord Creator and Paris’s Stars Are Blind song.
Visit UB40’s official website: http://www.ub40.co.uk/
August 20th, 2007
The live musical performances of Natasha Bedingfield in Dublin and Belfast have been rescheduled and she’ll now perform in February due to her commitments in the USA.
I’m bruised, as I was really looking forward to see her play live in Dublin, and Natasha, like you, I bruise easily!
Nevermind, at least it’ll chase away my winter blues seeing her beautiful face in February! Also, as the event is round about Valentines Day, maybe I can give her a card!
Dates are as follows:
If any of your friends are going to the gig, then send them a note from a cute little baby!
See the video of
I Wanna Have Your Babies
:
August 17th, 2007
On Thursday 4 and Friday 5 October at Tripod you’ll be swigging lager-lager-lager-lager shouting, lager-lager-lager-lager-shouting, lager-lager-lager-shouting to classic tunes from Underworld—boy!
Best known for Born Slippy of Trainspotting fame, the dance mixmasters bring their DJ talents to Dublin. So if you’re looking for a dance event in Dublin then get yourself along to Tripod to tap your toes to tunes that will permeate your mind faster than a pink microdot.
Book tickets for Underworld, Thursday 4 October at Tripod in Dublin
Book tickets for Underworld, Friday 5 October at Tripod in Dublin
Visit Underworld’s MySpace page and listen to Born Slippy, as well as the brilliant Crocodile, the latest track from their new album Oblivion with Bell. You can also check out the rest of their tour dates if you happen to miss out on the live event in Dublin.
If you do miss it, or simply want more, then Underworld are also playing Belfast’s Kings Hall on Saturday 6 October.
August 14th, 2007
Tickets are now on sale for Sinead O’ Connor’s live gig in Dublin on 18 November @ the Olympia Theatre.
I’m a big fan of Sinead, (bigger than Britney Spears who shaved her head to imitate her idol) and I can safely say that nothing really compares to you Sinead, nothing.
Sinead O’Connor’s gig in Dublin ties in with her re-emergence into making music after semi-retiral in 2003 and recovery from an illness I can’t pronounce.
She has recorded her own double CD album, Theology (as well as having studied the subject at a Catholic College in Dublin) and, at 40, is said to be feeling more spiritual than the outspoken youth who tore up a photo of the Pope live on television. Perhaps since her ordainment as Mother Bernadette Marie she has put her life in order.
“Theology is an attempt to create a place of peace in a time of war,” said Sinead. “It is my own personal response to what has taken and is affecting everyone around the world since and including September 11, 2001.
“I want to be very clear - there is no message. No preaching. Nothing deep and meaningful the artist wants to say, nothing trouble making. I simply wanted to make a beautiful thing, out of something beautiful, which inspires me.”
(posted on: http://www.myspace.com/sineadoconnormusic)
Sinead recently recorded a couple of tracks (Illegal Attacks and Some Folks Are Hollow) for Ian Brown’s album, The World Is Yours. Sinead’s haunting voice, drives home the message of Illegal Attacks which is due to be released on the September 17 with the full album due out September 24. Brown recorded the music for the album with O’Connor live at Windmill Lane studios in Dublin, Ireland.
Sinead is notoriously outspoken and Illegal Attacks, with the line “So bring the soldiers back”, speaks out against the war in Iraq. She has also criticised the use of Ireland’s Shannon Airport as a stopover, so it seems controversy still pulses through her veins as much as her devotion to religion.
LINKS etc:
Find out more about this live music event in Dublin over at our main site @ Dublin Events
Her main site has “The Healing Room of Sinead O’Connor” as a warning before you enter; I wonder if she has healed at all!
Visit Ian Brown’s MySpace. Ian Brown will play Big Top at Phoenix Park, Dublin on Sunday 28th October.
Book tickets for Ian Brown’s amazing live music event in Dublin.
August 9th, 2007
It’ll be a Happy Monday in Dublin when the Happy Mondays perform live on 24 September at the Olympia Theatre. So if you want a happier face than Bez, book tickets for this live music event in Dublin now!
Just like the Happy Mondays, I’ll be taking by mate along, he doesn’t do much but likes a good night out and a dance. He also hates Mondays, so hopefully the ticket will cheer him up! Either that or I’ll order him some “herbal” hallucinogens.
Are they happy?
Notorious as much for their lifestyle as much as the music itself the band has had spurts of disbanding and reforming, with this being their third attempt at unification, so we hope this time they’ll stick around!
Whilst many bands are checking into rehab, Shaun seems to have cleaned up his act a bit, with a brand new pair of teeth, a healthier lifestyle (he’s rumoured to have taken to cycling round the Peak District!), a new album (Unkle Disfunctional) and a timetable of live shows (including the gig in Dublin). So it seems the Mondays are looking at happier days!
See before and after pics of Shaun Ryder’s gnashers
None of the singles from the album have been released yet and there are a couple of hidden tracks to look forward to which you might be treated to if you go to the live music event in Dublin.
You’ll see Bez freaky dancin’ to some of their new material including Cuntry Disco and Anti Warhole On The Dancefloor as well as my favourite, Kinky Afro.
See you there!
LINKS:
Buy tickets to see the Happy Mondays perform live in Dublin.
Visit the official Happy Mondays site – with live music videos of their recent performances.
Twist your melon man, look at the band’s official MySpace page and listen to some of their new music.
August 8th, 2007
On Wednesday 22 August, Bud Rising commences in Dublin at 17.30 bringing three rebellious acts to whip your Wednesday into shape. The line up:
- Silversun Pickups 17.45
- Nine Inch Nails 18.45
- Foo Fighters 20.30
Silversun Pickups (also known as SSPU)
A well thought out opener to a well thought out festival – SSPU open the live music event at Dublin’s Marlay Park blasting out favourites such as Well Thought Out Twinkles and Kissing Families.
The band have been likened to The Smashing Pumpkins, so you know there’s no need for them to visit the School of Rock - well there wouldn’t be as band member Tanya Haden has already picked up tips from husband Jack Black.
Nine Inch Nails
Industro-rocky sounds and anti-US political messages are to be expected from Trent Reznor’s live ensemble at the gig at Marlay Park.
The release of the latest Nine Inch Nails album, Year Zero, in April is part of a concept album and spin off reality game that aims to capture the imagination of future generations.
Reznor’s album envisages an Orwellian existence and is a reaction against the Bush administration and US Military – so music fans should be prepared for some speeches and stunts dotted throughout the performance.
Previous NIN gigs saw Reznor plant flash drives randomly for fans to find – so who knows what to expect at this live event in Dublin.
Find out more about the Year Zero spin-off game
Foo Fighters
Foo fans will be anxious to hear new material from the Foo Fighters when they play live in Dublin. The band’s latest album Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace, is set for release on September 25, 2007 and marks a reunion for the band with record producer Gil Norton. Gil helped produce The Colour and The Shape in 1997.
Foo Fighters front man and lead vocalist Dave Grohl also has links with funnyman Jack Black as they appeared dressed in drag as frisky rednecks on the video for Low which was banned from MTV! Grohl also played drums on Tenacious D’s 2001 debut album and played the devil in the video for Tenacious D’s song Tribute.
Get a sneak preview of The Pretenders, the first single to be released off the new Foo Fighter’s album
For the latest Foo music news and tour dates, visit the main site
No patience? Book tickets to see them headline and kick off this Bud-tastic live music event in Dublin
August 6th, 2007
Josh Ritter performs his own blend of folk music live in Dublin’s Tripod on 8 September.
You might have heard his musical talents before, as a couple of years ago, the Idaho singer-songwriter performed at the Oxegen festival and has also supported home-grown act The Frames. He is a big fan of Dublin, so it’s great that he is performing here and his Live EP was recorded here in the city.
His live performances in Ireland have won him many fans in Dublin and beyond who love his Dylanesque ballads and heartfelt lyrics.
Josh loves his audience too and is known to tell little stories as he plays his music, so Dubliners are in for a treat.
I urge you to book your tickets for this live music event in Dublin now as tickets are sure to sell out.
Find out about the man behind the music, here’s an interview where Josh talks about how “great” he thinks Ireland is!
August 1st, 2007
See the home-grown talents of Mr Damien Rice and some very special guests over the bank holiday weekend on 25 August in Dublin’s Marlay Park.
The gig in Dublin will take place come rain, hail or shine and the organisers are advising fans to “dress appropriately”. So pack your wellies, sunglasses and waterproofs and book your tickets for this melodic music event now.
It’s refreshing news that Damien and co are tough enough to perform whatever the weather. All too often the plug is pulled on an outdoor gig because of the weather and there’s nothing worse than looking forward to a music event only to hear it’s cancelled a few days before.
Damien is tough though, after splitting from rock band Juniper (now Bell X1), busking around Europe and gigging live in coffee bars around Dublin he has now found success with albums O and 9, tracks from which he’ll perform at the music event in Dublin at Marlay Park.
The line up for this live music event in Dublin’s Marlay Park looks a bit like this:
- KT Tunstall
- Guillemots
- Willy Mason
- Fionn Regan
Find out more about the gig in Dublin over at our main site, dublinevents.com
Or book now!
July 30th, 2007
I wanna have Natasha Bedingfield’s babies!
Ahem, Natasha Bedingfield is coming to Ireland’s shores with two mind-blowing shows. You can see her in Belfast or Dublin (or both if you’re a really big music fan) in September February.
Natasha’s Belfast gig
Students will be very familiar with Mandela Hall as it’s also the students union! What an absolutely terrific setting for a live music gig for Natasha. Many of her fans in Belfast will be thrilled she’s performing live at such an intimate location. She’ll be so close to the audience you’ll feel like her soulmate.
Read more details about the live music gig in Belfast
Forget the detail, book tickets now before it’s sold out
Dublin’s fair city
If you’ve ever been to a live music gig at Vicar Street in Dublin, you’ll know that Natasha’s voice and set will be heard and seen from every seat in the house. The venue was specially designed to provide maximum viewing and listening pleasure and the sexy diva will certainly provide lots of that.
Book your tickets for the gig at Vicar Street in Dublin now and look forward to songs that will give you goosebumps. Her voice is “the voice to melt radios”, (as described on the Natasha Bedingfield site) so enjoy the gig in Dublin or Belfast and let Natasha melt your heart.
Find out more about the live gig in Dublin
A little known fact to nibble on about Natasha…
She was part of a Christian rock group with her famous brother Daniel and little sister Nikola (also a rising star) called the The DNA Algorithms! Listen to 2 early tracks here, live!
July 26th, 2007
Ladies and Gentlemen, wake me up before you go-go!
George Michael hits Dublin on Wednesday 1st August, he’ll be playing a music gig at the Point Theatre and tickets are selling out fast so get them before the sun goes down.
If you can’t get them for the gig in Dublin on Wednesday, check the availability on Thursday 2nd August.
You might even be able to catch George in Belfast on Saturday night (4th August) at the Odyssey Arena. The Arena is Ireland’s largest indoor music venue with standing and seating facilities, so there’s more chance of getting a ticket.
Hopefully you’ll be able to get one with freedom to dance to your favourite tunes, with classics like Fastlove, Outside and some classic Wham thrown in for good measure - it’s sure to be a great night out.
The gigs in Dublin and Belfast are part of George’s extended 25 Live tour which saw him play an amazing live gig in Dublin last year. The music event in Belfast will be the first time he has ever played in the city and is sure to be a sell out. Order tickets online now from Dublin Events!
If you make it along, feel free to post reviews of the Dublin or Belfast gig below!
July 25th, 2007
Anna Livia Dublin International Opera Festival opens with the hauntingly, beautiful Lucia di Lammermoor on Sunday 2nd September 2007 at 7:30pm at the Gaity Theatre.
Taking inspiration from Sir Walter Scott’s classic novel: “The Bride of Lammermoor”, Donizetti has created a passionate opera. The story centres around a family feud with a mesmerizing heroine played by the equally mesmerizing soprano, Angela Gilbert.
It’s set in Scotland, sung in Italian and one of the leading bel canto operas you could ever hope to experience. Hear and see for yourself here in Dublin.
Performances also take place on:
Find out more about this live operatic concert in Dublin or book tickets online now.
The Dublin International Opera Festival also brings The Pearl Fishers to Ireland. This live, operatic, musical delight takes place on alternate days to Lucia di Lammermoor, starting on Monday 3rd September at 7:30pm, then:
Some may be more familiar with Carmen Georges Bizet’s musical masterpiece, but The Pearl Fishers was his first, with the famous duet “Au fond du temple saint” thought to be one of the most famous and beloved pieces of music in the entire operatic repertoire. A love triangle in 3 acts, with Irish soprano Anne O’Byrne in main role of Leila, there’s nothing fishy about this opera.
The whole idea of a live music festival is to bring new sounds and experiences to people and The Dublin International Opera Festival is no exception, with talented opera singers and musicians from around the globe, as well as home grown in Ireland.
There’s accompanying lectures, exhibitions, family music events and masterclasses too, so even if you haven’t experienced live opera before then you can learn all about it. Take a look at the main Dublin International Opera Festival site to find out more.
Musical facts:
The film The Fifth Element featured the “mad scene” melody “Il dolce suono” from the 3rd Act of Lucia di Lammermoor in a performance by the alien diva Plavalaguna. The same scene also appeared in an episode of the series Law and Order.
The famous duet, “Au fond du temple saint” was top of BBC Radio’s “Your Hundred Best Tunes” from the last poll in 2003. (See Wikipedia)
July 25th, 2007
The idyllic grounds of Stradbally Hall may not seem like the most obvious place for a music festival, but since 2004 the Electric Picnic has brought some of rock’s biggest names to these rolling fields.
Since it began as a one-day event, the Electric Picnic has always been unique among music festivals. And not just because of the mix of music.
At the Electric Picnic, you can enjoy the 24-hour cinema, watch some great plays, get a makeover in the Pamper Palace and even fire off a few rounds at paintball.
If you’ve ever thought festival food consisted of dodgy kebabs and burgers, the Electric Picnic will change your mind. There is plenty of high quality, organic food, including mouth-watering barbequed steaks.
All the traders at the Electric Picnic will be using Fair Trade ingredients where possible and the festival is doing all it can to become carbon neutral.
This year the Electric Picnic has teamed up with Act for Climate. Their ‘Adopt a TD’ scheme will help ensure Ireland’s politicians get the message about global warming.
The Electric Picnic could well be the world’s most ethical music festival. Looking at the line-up, it will also be one of the most entertaining.
The 32,500 fans who were lucky enough to get tickets for the Electric Picnic’s three-day weekend will get to see an unbelievable range of acts.
Other festivals may say they have a diverse line-up, but few can compare to the Electric Picnic. It’s not often you get to see Iggy Pop play on the same bill as the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.
The festival has always made a point of including many up-and-coming acts, making it a great stepping stone for younger bands. It also features classic acts such as Sonic Youth, ensuring there is an older audience compared to other festivals.
The Electric Picnic runs from the 31st of August to the 2nd of September.
July 11th, 2007
Over 80,000 fans enjoyed a weekend of music and mud at the Oxegen festival.
The Killers brought the weekend to a close, with a storming set. Their brand of indie rock had the whole of Punchestown Racecourse bouncing.
Saturday was headlined by Snow Patrol and Muse. Snow Patrol were given a heroes welcome, for what was treated as a homecoming.
Over the last year, the Northern Irish band have become one of the biggest acts in the world, and few bands could have followed them.
Fortunately, Muse were the perfect choice.
Their flamboyant art-rock is made for festivals, and Muse brought Saturday to a close with a bang.
The eclectic mix of music meant Oxegen had something for everyone. Tori Amos drew an appreciative crowd, which enjoyed her experimental piano ballads. At the other end of the musical spectrum, the Wu Tang Clan also thrilled their fans, proving they are the kings of gangsta rap.
The Gossip, Scissor Sisters, Avril Lavigne and Mika were all making their first appearance at Oxegen, but they all played liked festival veterans.
This year’s Oxegen festival also saw many acts returning to Punchestown. Razorlight, The Kooks, Maximo Park and Daft Punk were all given a warm welcome by the fans at Oxegen.
If the 100 bands weren’t enough for you, the festival featured some of Ireland’s best comedy talent in the Laughter Lounge tent. There was also a fun fair and, thanks to the less than ideal weather, plenty of opportunities to enjoy mud wrestling and mud slides. In fact, anything that involved mud.
But the rain couldn’t dampen spirits, and no doubt people have already started counting down to Oxegen 2008.
July 9th, 2007
In a real coup for the Irish Youth Wind Ensemble, they will perform at the prestigious Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow.
The IYWE will get to play alongside some of the best musicians in Britain, at the British Association of Symphonic Bands and Wind Ensembles (BASBWE) on Friday 29th June.
James Cavanagh, Music Director at the IYWE, and Timothy Reynish will both be conducting at the Glasgow concert.
Reynish is one of the most influential figures in symphonic wind band music in the world. He was Head of Wind and Percussion at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester for over 25 years. He is currently Senior Professor of Wind and Brass at the Guildhall School of Music, London.
James Cavanagh has conducted orchestras across Europe, the USA and Japan. He is dedicated to education and outreach projects, working with the National Concert Hall and the National Symphony Orchestra.
The IYWE is committed to offering young wind, brass and percussion players the opportunity to study, perform and experience music composed for wind ensembles. Some 800 young musicians have played with the ensemble, benefiting greatly by the experience.
The BASBWE conference in Glasgow offers another great chance to perform for and learn from some of the most talented young musicians in Britain and Ireland.
June 26th, 2007
Dublin has a lot to offer throughout the year, and summer probably has more than its fair share of events to entertain visitors and locals.
There is fun for all the family at the various Activity Days. Throughout July, venues around Dublin will be hosting a selection of live music, circus workshops, puppet and magic shows, face painters and bouncy castles.
Each activity day starts at 3 pm and they will be on at:
1st of July at Bunting Road
8th of July at Fairview Park
22nd of July John Paul Park
29th of July Johnstown Park
And that’s not all. There is a great range of concerts throughout the summer. The Lunchtime Concerts series is on at 1 pm – 2 pm and features:
The Army Band - 4th July - Merrion Square
The Garda Band - 10th July - Herbert Park
Mary McEvoy & Friends - 11th July - Civic Offices
Avondale - 18th July - Wolfe Tone Park
The Niall Toner Band - 25th July - Civic Offices
Crofton Folk Band - 1st August - Herbert Park
If you have the energy for shopping after all that, you should see the Smithfield Summer Market. Opening in August 3rd, this is the biggest open air market Dublin has ever seen.
As well as stalls selling something for everyone, the Smithfield Market hosts street entertainment and kids’ activities. There is also a picnic area so you can relax.
The Smithfield Summer Market is open every Friday and Saturday until September 1st.
If you want a taste of the exotic, the Eurocultured Festival is sure to satisfy you.
This free festival features the best in European art, dance, music, performance and cuisine at Smithfield Plaza on Saturday August 18th.
Over 150 top performers from across Europe will be coming to Ireland for the Eurocultured Festival. Expect to see street art, flamenco dancing, DJs, live music, workshops and much more.
The summer in Dublin is always filled with activities, and there is a lot more to do in 2007 as well as the options here.
June 25th, 2007
The outspoken and controversial Sinead O’Connor is due to appear at the Oxegen festival at Punchestown Racecourse on Sunday 8th July. Love her or loathe her, she should be one of the most interesting acts at the event.
Ireland’s Sinead O’Connor is probably as well known for her interviews and personal life as she is for her music. She’s been ordained as a priest in a small Catholic sect, came out of the closet in 2000, put herself back in soon afterwards and was boycotted by radio stations across the USA after her infamous Saturday Night Live appearance in 1992, when she tore up a photo of the Pope during a performance.
But Oxegen is about the bringing great music to Ireland, and she’ll be sure to deliver. With a back catalogue that takes in reggae, gospel, traditional Irish music, pop and rock, Sinead O’Connor alone is almost as diverse as all the rest of the Oxegen festival.
Oxegen 2007 promises to be the greatest rock n roll event in Ireland, with acts like Snow Patrol, The Killers, Tori Amos, My Chemical Romance, Wu Tang Clan, Daft Punk and Mika among the acts playing over the weekend.
There are also still plenty of rumours swirling around, with some commentators suggesting that Bono and Radiohead will be appearing.
Whether any of the rumours turn out to be true or not, fans know they will be in for a great weekend.
Over 80,000 music lovers will be at Oxegen 2007, on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th July. Tickets sold out in just over an hour as lucky fans got there hands on tickets for some of the best music in Ireland.
As well as many established bands, two unsigned acts will be part of the Oxegen festival. The winners of the Platform II Battle of the Bands will have a dream come true as they join the bill at Oxegen ’07.
It should be one of the biggest music events in Ireland.
June 11th, 2007
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