The University Concert Hall will resonate with the sound of young voices and instruments on Wednesday, May 14, as the Irish Chamber Orchestra’s ICO Schools programme presents its eagerly anticipated annual Gala Show, Mix Tape, at 11am.
This dynamic, joy-filled performance will feature over 410 children from Le Chéile N.S. and St. Mary’s N.S., Limerick, showcasing the power of music to transform, unite and inspire.
ICO Schools—formerly known as Sing Out With Strings—has been a pioneering force in music education since its launch in 2008. The programme provides over 100 hours of free, high-quality music tuition each week, fully embedded into the school curriculum. Every participating child receives an instrument to take home, along with consistent mentorship from ICO musicians, fostering confidence, discipline, and artistic expression.
Now in its 17th year, ICO Schools has reached more than 3,000 children, many of whom have gone on to perform their original compositions at leading venues such as The Hunt Museum, Limerick City Gallery, and University Concert Hall itself.
This year’s Gala, aptly titled Mix Tape, promises a colourful blend of student-composed pieces and beloved classics. The event will open with a medley of well-known tunes performed by the full school ensemble, followed by spirited sets from the Schools Orchestra.
Younger pupils (Junior Infants to 2nd Class) will delight audiences with playful renditions of Down By the Bay and Three Little Birds, while older students (3rd to 6th Class) will perform Count Me In by Bruno Mars alongside their own original songs, exploring themes of hope, unity, and imagination.
The children will be joined on stage by some of Limerick’s finest musicians, including Cian Boylan (keyboard), Dave Keary (electric guitar), and John Daly (drums), bringing a professional polish to an already exciting programme. Key ICO players Kenneth Rice (violin) and Malachy Robinson (electric bass) have worked closely with the students throughout the year, offering inspiration, guidance, and collaborative support.
As a flagship community initiative of the Irish Chamber Orchestra, ICO Schools embodies the orchestra’s commitment to access, inclusion, and the transformative power of music. Beyond teaching musical skills, the programme instils a sense of pride, belonging, and resilience in children growing up in the heart of Limerick.
Admission to this uplifting morning concert is free of charge, and the public is warmly invited to attend. Tickets will be available from the University Concert Hall foyer on the day of the performance.
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