Irish traditional performers proficient in the following instruments should apply: accordion, fiddle, flute, whistle, uilleann pipes, harp, banjo, mandolin, concertina and bodhrán. Performers with formal training in the following disciplines should also apply: violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, piccolo, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, french horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, piano and orchestral percussion. Other members will include those competent on the following instruments: drum kit, acoustic guitar, electric guitar bass, electric bass, keyboard, piano, percussion and harmonica and those proficient in these instruments should also apply if interested.
Ideally performers should be between the ages of 15 & 25 and have at least 5 years experience. Those chosen to become members should note that weekly rehearsals will take place in Galway.
Galway Traditional Orchestra would not be possible without the invaluable work carried by a whole host of music educators who have, through their teachings, helped shape many young musicians into becoming highly talented performers during their formative years. On being accepted as members of Galway Traditional Orchestra a new chapter in their musical lives begins and with it a new learning experience. We endeavour to make our teachings as enjoyable and productive as possible and hope it is both a musical and networking experience that they will hold dear for many years to come.
“The existence of performers from disparate musical backgrounds encourages a more varied and inspired artistic output and increases the interaction between young performers from different parts of the city and county. At a time when well-being is so important in the lives of young people, the orchestra acts as a type of musical catharsis ” Eric Cunningham
Galway Traditional Orchestra held its inaugural rehearsal in January 2019 at the Aula Maxima at the National University of Ireland, Galway and since then rehearses weekly in Galway city. The orchestra comprises young Galway based Irish traditional musicians performing alongside other orchestra members who are drawn from classical, jazz and popular musical traditions.
Through compelling musical fusion we aim to develop a sonic landscape that will ultimately become the innate and imaginative voice of Galway Traditional Orchestra.
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We aim to foster a community of performers and followers that becomes enriched and transformed by the power of Irish traditional music in an orchestral setting.
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We aim to evince the highest ideals of the people of Galway and be an example of the cultural community in Galway at its finest in all its work.
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We aim to enable diverse future generations to know, perform, participate in and enjoy the music of the Galway Traditional Orchestra.
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