Harpsichord Diaries to enchant with five centuries of music

Harpsichordist Elaine Funaro
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A theatrical concert bringing history to life for children takes centre stage at this weekend’s Limerick Early Music Festival

FAMILIES in Limerick are in for a treat this Saturday 21 as the Harpsichord Diaries brings five centuries of music to life in a magical blend of live performance, storytelling and animated illustration.

The family concert, suitable for children aged six and above, takes place at Belltable on O’Connell Street from 1pm to 2pm this Saturday March 21, as part of the Limerick Early Music Festival 2026.

Presented by H.I.P.S.T.E.R. — Historically Informed Performance Series, Teaching, Education & Research — the show stars internationally acclaimed harpsichordist Elaine Funaro and New York-based actor and narrator Eric Love. Adapted from Elena’s Dream, the audio play version of the Funaro and Love children’s book The Harpsichord Diaries, the performance sees Elaine play music spanning five centuries while Eric gives voice to more than a dozen characters.

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Audiences will also experience projected animations drawn from Andrea Love’s illustrations in the original book, lending the concert an enchanting visual dimension that promises to captivate young imaginations.

Funaro is widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost harpsichordists, having performed solo recitals at the Smithsonian Institution and the Library of Congress, and collaborated extensively with symphonies and chamber ensembles across the globe.

For more on Limerick Early Music Festival 2026 see www.limerickearlymusic.com.