Orpheus Returns will bring together children from Mother of Divine Grace School in Finglas and Virgin Mary Boys School in Ballymun to collaborate with professional musicians, composers, creatives, botanists and ecologists. Together, they will explore the biodiversity crisis through music and creativity.
Led by renowned composer Dee Isaacs, the project will engage students in a series of educational and creative workshops, culminating in the creation of an original theatrical music performance that blends art and science. By connecting musical expression with environmental awareness, Orpheus Returns aims to foster a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and inspire positive change.
The project will conclude with a series of magical twilight performances open to the public, featuring the students performing alongside professional musicians in the stunning surroundings of Ireland’s National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. The project is also supported by Dublin City Council, the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Grant Thornton.
Music Network is Ireland’s national music touring and development organisation and is committed to making high quality live music accessible to communities across the country. The organisation works to support musicians in developing fulfilling careers and to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to connect through music.
Other community programmes led by Music Network include:
- The Lullaby Residency - fostering social, cultural and artistic inclusion for migrant communities by bringing young children and families together to share and exchange lullabies from diverse cultures.
- Musical Me! - an inclusive music project with students from St. Michael’s House, Ballymun which enables students to respond to live music using movement.
- Teaching Residencies - in locations around the country that enable people aged 55 and over to return to playing musical instruments.
- A Residency Programme specifically for professional musicians with autism / autistic musicians.
The donation is part of the Benefact Group’s flagship giving programme, now in its seventh year, which supports charities across Ireland and the UK. This final special draw of 2025 recognised organisations whose core purpose is the advancement of arts, culture or heritage. The ten winning charities were chosen from thousands of public nominations submitted between 10th and 19th of October 2025.
Speaking about the award, Sharon Rollston, Chief Executive of Music Network said: "Our vision is of a culture that values live music as an essential part of a healthy, vibrant and diverse society. Thanks to the generous support of Benefact Group and the Movement for Good Awards, we can expand our community projects and bring the joy of music to even more people.
We believe the cultural and creative sectors have a vital role to play in addressing the climate crisis and through projects like Orpheus Returns, we aim to inspire a deeper connection with the natural world, using the power of music and creativity to imagine a better, more sustainable future together.”
Movement for Good is promoted by Ecclesiastical Insurance (Ireland) proudly part of the Benefact Group. Music Network is funded by The Arts Council.