In February we present an unmissable collaboration featuring four extraordinary artists who collectively have shared their music with audiences over four decades of the National Touring Programme. Accordion maestro Dermot Byrne, legendary fiddler and member of the iconic Bothy Band Kevin Burke, acclaimed singer-songwriter Noriana Kennedy (The Whileaways), and lauded guitarist Jim Murray come together for an exceptional 14-date nationwide tour beginning on 10th February followed by performances in London and Paris.
Then from 25th March to 2nd April, we present another brand new collaboration featuring two of the most exciting rising stars of the classical music world: accordionist extraordinaire Théo Ould and stellar soprano Alison Langer. Together this duo will present a fascinating programme entitled Confessions from Dusk till Dawn, exploring the night as a space of poetry, intimacy and mystery. From Schubert’s romanticism to Poulenc’s whimsical miniatures, their musical journey will also pay homage to the genius of Dvořák and Kurt Weill along the way. The programme will also feature a new Music Network commission by Grammy-nominated Irish composer Donnacha Dennehy.
From 8th to 19th April, experience the mesmerising artistry of Trio Bohémo, one of Europe’s most exciting young chamber groups, as they make their Irish debut with Music Network. Known for their captivating performances and impressive command of the piano trio repertoire, the ensemble will perform a beautiful programme featuring Schubert’s serenely lyrical Notturno in E-flat major, alongside inspirational and dramatic works by Ravel and Beethoven. A new large-scale work by Irish composer Rhona Clarke, co-commissioned by Music Network and Music Generation to mark Music Network’s 40th anniversary and celebrate the long-standing relationship between the two organisations will also premiere during the tour.
Clarke’s composition is a three-movement work based on poems reflecting on ‘hope’ as an enduring force in human life. It has been written for the internationally renowned Trio Bohémo, to be performed with Music Generation youth string ensembles and adult choirs from Louth and Kerry. The piece, titled The Unconquerable Soul, will receive two performances during the tour. Conducted by Amy Ryan, the first will take place on 15 April at St. Peter’s Church of Ireland, Drogheda with Setanta Choir and Music Generation Louth Senior String Orchestra. The second, on 19 April at Siamsa Tíre, Tralee, features Cór Seoda Tíre and Music Generation Kerry String Ensemble.
This will be followed by The Séamus Egan Project, arriving on our shores for the very first time, led by the celebrated multi-instrumentalist, composer and co-founder of Irish-American supergroup Solas. Hailed as a creative force in traditional music, Séamus is celebrated for his boundary-pushing artistry and ability to make every performance feel fresh, soulful and full of life. Joined by a remarkable ensemble of collaborators, this tour takes place from 7-16 May.
From 19-27 June, we present the stunning sounds of the Shuteen Erdenebaatar Quartet. This hard-swinging yet deeply sensitive ensemble is led by award-winning pianist and composer Shuteen Erdenebaatar, hailed by Jazzwise as 'one of the most exciting young talents in jazz'. She blends classical precision with jazz to create highly distinctive music full of melodic beauty that speaks directly to the heart.
In September, we continue our 40th anniversary celebrations with a dynamic new collaboration featuring four of Ireland’s most outstanding traditional musicians. This new ensemble unites the phenomenal voices of Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh and Pauline Scanlon, two of Ireland’s most striking interpreters of traditional and contemporary song, alongside Tom Morrow, Dervish’s distinguished fiddle player and acclaimed guitarist, singer and songwriter John Doyle.
Then in October, audiences can experience the electrifying sound world of Grammy-winning pianist and composer Bill Laurance. A founding member of five-time Grammy Award-winning group Snarky Puppy, Bill has wowed audiences around the globe with his genre-defying performances and compositions. With thanks to Triskel Arts Centre for their generous support of this tour.
In November, we bring 2026 to a spectacular close with the phenomenal Cheng² Duo. Acclaimed for their magnetic chemistry and flawless performances, cellist Bryan Cheng and pianist Silvie Cheng share more than musical brilliance. As siblings, their deep bond and intuitive connection infuse every note with warmth, vitality and authenticity. Performing an exquisite programme entitled A Hero’s Welcome, expect to hear the finest interpretations of sonatas by Brahms and Poulenc, an enchanting fairytale by Janáček and a gorgeous Music Network commission.
In addition to these exciting tours, Music Network has planned some incredible one-off events and projects in celebration of their milestone anniversary. Collaborations and partnerships with The Ark, Riverbank Arts Centre in Kildare and glór in Clare, Music Generation, National Botanic Gardens, the Office of Public Works (OPW) are all confirmed and further details will be announced in the New Year.
Now that the Christmas season is upon us, don’t forget that music makes a perfect gift, and tickets to any of the Music Network tours will be something that the recipient can look forward as a way to chase away the January blues!