New Ross Piano Festival celebrates 20 years with five days of world-class music

The New Ross Piano Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary this September with five days of classical, folk and jazz piano performances, bringing a host of young and emerging talent alongside internationally renowned musicians.

The festival runs from September 23rd to 27th, with Festival Director Connie Tantrum overseeing a milestone programme that promises something for music lovers of all ages.

The festival opens on September 23rd with the Young Pianist Concert, showcasing 20 young performers from across the southeast as they take to the Steinway piano.

On September 24th, Irish pianist and composer Jamie Duffy will perform with his quartet. Duffy is best known for his viral hit Solas, which has brought his music to audiences around the world.

Friday, September 25th, will feature a Coffee Concert with Dida Condria, a masterclass and the world premiere of Gerry Murphy’s The Essential Isness of Being. The new work will be performed by Artistic Director Finghin Collins alongside international guests.

Saturday’s programme will showcase the festival’s diversity, with African classical music performed by Rebeca Omordia, New York jazz pianist Judy Carmichael and a selection of evening chamber performances.

The festival will conclude on Sunday, September 27th, with a Coffee Concert from Fabrizio Chiovetta before the RTÉ Concert Orchestra takes to the stage for the Grand Finale Concerto Gala.

The orchestra will perform works by Beethoven, Chopin and Grieg, alongside Finghin Collins, Fedorova and Bavouzet.

Marking two decades of music in New Ross, this year’s festival brings together established international names, Irish talent and the next generation of young pianists for a packed five-day celebration of the piano.