The final concert in the Drogheda Classical Music autumn season which takes place on Wednesday 8 December is a celebration of the work of French composer Camille Saint-Saëns.
Best known for opera, larger orchestral works and instrumental concertos, Saint-Saëns also devoted much time and effort to writing chamber music.
Marking 100 years since his death, the final concert in the autumn series presents two of his great smaller-scale works, the piano quintet in A Major and his short and quirky septet for piano, strings and trumpet.
Originally written as a joke, the septet’s instrumentation of strings, piano and trumpet was most unusual at the time. However, this work was hugely popular and was later arranged by the composer for piano trio, and by his student Gabriel Fauré for piano duet. The programme will be performed by pianist Fiachra Garvey, Musici Ireland strings and Niall O’Sullivan, trumpet.
“This programme was originally planned for January 2021, but postponed due to rising Covid numbers and the third lockdown. We believed audiences would want to experience it live and in-person rather than online, and so we’re delighted that it is now happening in Saint-Saëns’ anniversary month and actually makes the perfect closing concert to the year.” Pauline Ashwood, Director, Drogheda Classical Music
This concert takes place in St Peter’s Church of Ireland, Drogheda and to ensure the audience’s comfort and safety numbers will continue to be restricted . The performances will last approximately 1 hour in duration and be performed without an interval.
Tickets are €20 and can be booked through Droichead Arts Centre on 041 9833946 or www.droichead.com with further information available from www.droghedaclassicalmusic.com
The Series is funded by the Arts Council and Louth County Council and run in partnership with Droichead Arts Centre with sponsorship from WhiteLight Events, the d Hotel and RTÉ Supporting the Arts.
Wednesday 8 December 7:30pm
Fiachra Garvey (piano), Mia Cooper, Victor Vigas (violins), Beth McNinch (viola), Bill Butt (cello) Dominic Dudley (bass) and Niall O’Sullivan (trumpet)
Saint-Saëns Piano Quintet in A Major, Op.14
Saint-Saëns Septet in E flat major, Op. 65
