Author Archives: John McCormack Society

We’re delighted to welcome the return of our Vice-Chairman, David Clarke, for another one of his excellent talks that feature recordings from the wellknown to the obscure. A few new gems are always unearthed. Although the title suggests the selection of music with be focused on the Irish tenor, this is not so. David’s talkContinue reading “A Tribute to John McCormack”

What a wonderful evening in the Whyte Recital Hall at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. The future of Irish classical singing looks very bright. Thank you to Niall Kinsella, Eva Kavanagh, Emma Power, Donncha McDonagh and Seán Tester for a concert to remember. Attendees went home smiling. Let’s not forget our President, Gordon Ledbetter,Continue reading “Great night at the Whyte Recital Hall”

John McCormack was born on this day in 1884. His lyric tenor voice, characterised by warmth, purity, and impeccable diction was combined with a technical precision and emotional expressiveness that made him one of the most compelling artists of the 20th century. John’s English language recording of Handel’s ‘Care selve’ from Atalanta (‘Come my Beloved’)Continue reading “John McCormack’s Birthday”

Seán Tester – Recipient of the BVOF | RIAM John Pollard Bursary A tenor from Drogheda, Co. Louth, Seán studied Drama, Dance and Singing at the Drogheda School of Performing Arts and has a strong background in choral singing as a dedicated member of St. Peter’s Male Voice Choir, Drogheda. In recent years, Seán’s vocalContinue reading “Sean Tester – Guest Tenor”

Pianist and Conductor  Pianist and conductor Niall Kinsella has established himself as one of Ireland’s most exciting, versatile and sought-after musicians. He has been described as “a meticulous collaborator” (BBC Music Magazine) and “a first-class calling card as a knowledgeable and profound song accompanist” (Merker, Austria). He has performed as a song-accompanist extensively across Europe, in Austria, France, Spain, Hungary, Czech-Republic, Italy and UnitedContinue reading “Niall Kinsella”

2024 Bursary Award Recipient Donncha McDonagh is a baritone and choral conductor from Dublin. He began full-time studies at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in 2023 with Dr Imelda Drumm, having grown up singing in Piccolo Lasso children’s choir under Dr Ite O’Donovan. Donncha has sung with ensembles including Sestina in Belfast and theContinue reading “Donncha McDonagh – Baritone”

2024 Bursary Award Recipent Emma Power is a mezzo-soprano hailing from Waterford. They have recently completed the Masters of Music Performance Program at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, studying with Dr Imelda Drumm and Dr Dearbhla Collins. Emma received their BMus from MTU Cork in 2014 where they studied with Mary MacSweeney and AlanContinue reading “Emma Power – Mezzo Soprano”

Bursary Award Recipient 2024 At just 20 years old, Eva Kavanagh has already gained a significant number of achievements. Beginning with accolades like the RIAM High Achiever Award in 2024 and the title of ‘Carlow College of Music Student of the Year 2022’, Eva’s talent has shone brightly from the start of her vocal studies.Continue reading “Eva Kavanagh – Soprano”

Come join us for a night of musical talent at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. Witness the next generation of performers showcase their wonderful talents. It’s a night filled with performances of opera, classical repertoire, ballads, beautiful melodies and a guest performer. Don’t miss out on this special event celebrating the legacy of John McCormack! Register for your FREE TICKETS here.Continue reading “Annual Bursary Awards Concert”