One of Ireland's longest-running cultural institutions, The Feis Ceoil, is celebrating its 125th anniversary in March 2021, with the national classical music festival reimagined as an online event.
Throughout the decades almost every classical Irish musician has competed at the event affectionately known as 'The Feis'. Running from 15-26 March, 136 Feis Ceoil competitions will take place online in 2021, aiming to keep as close to the spirit of a 'normal' Feis as possible.
playing violin at Dollymount Strand for the launch of the 2021 Feis Ceoil
(Pic: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland)
Advance video submissions have been requested from this year's entrants - a panel of international adjudicators will view their performances online, with winner announcements daily. Videos for each day's competitions will be made available to view online.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, competitions requiring large gatherings such as choir and orchestra will not take place this year.
"The Feis team believes that our loyal competitors deserve the opportunity this platform affords them, especially given the sudden but unavoidable cancellation of our March 2020 event," said Feis Ceoil Association CEO Laura Gilsenan. "This also ensures that the ongoing significant portfolio of awards and bursaries - including qualification for the €15k RDS Bursary - is made available to competitors from around the country. After 125 years, the Feis is determined to do all it can to support young musicians who have been so impacted by the last year."
The 2021 Feis Ceoil takes place from 15-26 March - find out more here.
