The second annual Black Tie Summer Gala in aid of the Limerick School of Music (LSOM) Alumni and Friends Fund took place recently in the stunning surroundings of Gardens International, one of Limerick city’s most architecturally striking venues. Hosted on Henry Street, the evening saw alumni, friends, and supporters of the school gather for an unforgettable night of music, community, and celebration.
Guests were welcomed at the black-tie gala evening with a sparkling Prosecco and canapés reception, providing a relaxed and elegant setting for old friends and new acquaintances to connect before the evening’s centrepiece, a spectacular concert by the staff of Limerick School of Music.
The evening opened with Principal Cecilia Madden conducting the orchestra through the first movement of Beethoven’s timeless Pastoral Symphony, setting the tone for a night of exceptional artistry. Highlights from the musical programme included a selection of classical favourites with a summer twist, including works by Mascagni, Morricone, Rodrigo, and Bach.
Joanne Nicholas, John O’Keeffe, with Brendan and Carmel McMurrow, atteding the Limerick School of Music Gala Fundraiser.
Other highlights included a stirring performance of Bach’s D Minor Keyboard Concerto by piano maestro Stuart O’Sullivan, played on a full concert-size Steinway grand piano specially brought in for the occasion. Guests were also treated to evocative Spanish guitar music by LSOM guitar instructor John O’Shea, and a haunting rendition of Max Richter’s reimagining of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, recently made famous by the Netflix series Bridgerton.
Conor Sherlock and Niamh Chambers at the Limerick School of Music Gala Fundraiser.
To round out the evening, film music fans were delighted by beloved scores from Ennio Morricone, and musical theatre lovers were serenaded with songs from the shows, performed by LSOM’s resident soprano Emma English.
Mark and Ann Murphy attending the Limerick School of Music Gala Fundraiser.
The gala was attended by Mayor of Limerick John Moran, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s Director of Further Education and Training, Paul Patton and members of the LSOM Alumni and Friends community. The backdrop of Gardens International, kindly provided once again this year by Limerick 2030, elevated the entire evening. With its high ceilings and natural light, the space provided the perfect backdrop for a midsummer celebration of music, education, and community.
Damien Duggan, Ruth Robinson, Mayor of Limerick John Moran and Rose Doyle at the LSOM Gala Fundraiser.
All proceeds from the event will go towards the LSOM Alumni and Friends Fund, which supports scholarships, masterclasses, and future opportunities for students and graduates of the school.
For more information on Limerick School of Music go to www.limerickschoolofmusic.ie
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