THE Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) will present the world premiere of Mani, a striking new percussion concerto by acclaimed Irish composer Ronan Guilfoyle, when it comes to University Concert Hall, on Friday November 14.
The highly anticipated work forms the centrepiece of THREE WORLDS, a dazzling concert programme touring Dublin, Limerick, and Cork this month under the direction of Emily Davies.
Commissioned by the ICO, Mani showcases percussionist Matthew Jacobson in an exhilarating exploration of rhythm, colour, and cultural fusion.
Drawing inspiration from South Indian rhythmic traditions, the piece opens with a vibrant tapestry of interlocking pulses before unfolding into moments of lyricism and breathtaking virtuosity.
Featuring ICO bassist Malachy Robinson on bass guitar, it culminates in a finale bursting with energy and groove.
“The percussion setup is a kind of hybrid drum set, because I wanted the feeling of groove that drums can give, as well as the colour of other percussion,” explained composer Ronan Guilfoyle. “The strings are far from bystanders, they interact constantly, providing colour, counterpoint and intrigue throughout.”
“Having the brilliance of the ICO made it a joy to explore these possibilities.”
Balancing new and familiar worlds, the programme opens with Purcell’s beloved Abdelazer Suite, alive with Baroque elegance and vitality, before concluding with Dvorák’s radiant Serenade for Strings, cherished for its warmth, melody, and joyful spirit.
THREE WORLDS captures the ICO’s signature blend of bold programming and virtuosic performance in one vibrant evening of music-making.
www.irishchamberorchestra.com for tickets and more information.