New orchestra tunes up for inaugural concert

DUBLIN’S newest community orchestra is seeking members of all ages.

Ian O’Maonaigh and Louise Mooney, from the Drumcondra Musical Society, founded the Humanitarian Symphony Orchestra.

Its inaugural charity concert takes place on Friday, April 15 in Christchurch Cathedral at 8pm with the proceeds going to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.  Speaking ahead of the concert, Mr O’Maonaigh said: “Our mission is to enrich, inspire and serve our community as a symphony orchestra recognised for its artistic excellence. 

“We want to strengthen the humanitarian commitments of the orchestra by continuing to give charity concerts which benefit local and national organisations with a philanthropic mission.

“Our forthcoming concert involves some wonderful classical repertoire-Mozart Symphony 40; Gounod Petite Symphonie and Grieg Holberg Suite.”

The orchestra has plenty of experienced musical talent with the likes of Greer Harte and Ruth Staunton, violinists, Tommy Murtagh, cello lead, Brid Cannon, violin lead and Caoimhe Fahy, viola lead. The conductor is Karen Ní Bhroin, one of only three female orchestra conductors in the country. All 70 positions in the orchestra are voluntary.

Greer Hart, at 72, is the oldest member of the orchestra and he jumped at the opportunity to play the concert. He was a member of the Dublin Baroque Players for 45 years having retired in 2011. 

“I got an email from Ian and what swung it for me was the classic repertoire,” he said. “As I live in Rush the rehearsals were easily accessible being down the road in Drumcondra.”

Conductor, Karen Ní Bhroin was also delighted to become lead conductor of the orchestra. She works with a number of orchestras, choral societies and brass and reed bands. She estimates she has spent €30,000 advancing her career as she has had to pay for private lessons in Ireland, the UK and further afield.

“I have been studying conducting privately since I was 16-years-old,” said Karen who is sponsored by First Investment Bank, Berlin.

Violinist Ruth Staunton has been playing since she was six. She enjoys performing and has made great friends over the years. However, she admits she tries to put in some practice every day to keep up her skills.

”My parents never forced me to play nor to practice,” she said. “I just enjoyed it and still do today. I have made lots of friends.” 

•If you are interested in becoming a member, visit humanitarianorchestra@gmail.com.