Composers, musicians and contemporary music fans from around the globe will converge in Dundalk this June 16th – 17th for the Louth Contemporary Music Society's midsummer festival.
This year’s event is entitled Folks’ Music and will showcase an array of talented performers, including the first visit to Ireland of the Pulitzer prize winning composer and performer Caroline Shaw.
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Listen: Caroline Shaw talks to RTÉ Arena
Known for creating symphonies, theatre pieces and works for ballet all around the world, the multi-talented composer, violinist and vocalist will make her much anticipated Irish debut performing alongside the Esposito Quartet at Dundalk’s music bar, The Spirit Store, on Saturday 17th June.
We asked Caroline for her choice cultural picks...
FILM
Babette's Feast. This classic Danish film is a must-see for foodies and cinephiles alike. Directed by Gabriel Axel and based on a story by Karen Blixen, the film tells the story of a French refugee who comes to a small Danish village and prepares an unforgettable feast for the locals. With beautiful cinematography and a moving story, it's a true masterpiece.
MUSIC
Rosalía. This Spanish singer-songwriter has been making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of flamenco, pop, and R&B. Her powerful voice and innovative music videos have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Check out her album El Mal Querer for an immersive listening experience.
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BOOK
The Overstory by Richard Powers. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is an epic tale that explores the connections between trees and humans. Through the interconnected stories of nine characters, Powers weaves together a powerful narrative that will leave you thinking about the natural world in a new way.
THEATRE
Our Town by Thornton Wilder. This classic play has been performed countless times since its premiere in 1938, and for good reason. Set in a small New England town, the play explores the lives of ordinary people and the universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. With its minimalist staging and timeless message, Our Town is a true gem of American theatre.
TV
Battlestar Galactica. This critically acclaimed sci-fi series is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Set in a distant future, the show follows the last surviving humans as they flee from their robotic enemies and search for a new home. With complex characters, thrilling action, and thought-provoking themes, Battlestar Galactica is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
GIG
Louth Contemporary Music Society's Folks' Music Festival in Louth. I am biassed as my How to Fold the Wind will be performed by Chamber Choir Ireland, plus I perform with the Esposito Quartet on Saturday 17 June in the Spirit Store. The festival includes two new brilliant choral works written by Linda Catlin Smith and Cassandra Miller, nww chamber pieces from Sam Perkin and Laurence Crane and a really special performance of Terry Riley’s IN C which will be performed by Irish Traditional musicians. All curated by Eamonn Quinn, a prize winning curator.
ART
Ragnar Kjartansson's Bliss. This immersive video installation features a group of musicians playing a single chord for over an hour. As the music continues, the performers become more and more engrossed in their instruments, creating a mesmerising experience for the viewer. If you're looking for a truly immersive art experience, Bliss is not to be missed.
PODCAST
Radiolab. This award-winning podcast explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and culture through engaging storytelling and in-depth reporting. With topics ranging from the mysteries of the universe to the quirks of the human mind, Radiolab is sure to expand your horizons and leave you thinking.
How a study about seagulls from the 1970s rocked our understanding of what's natural in animals... and in us. Listen to @lmillernpr tell the story here: https://t.co/kBAInjlvRd pic.twitter.com/borT24XdEP
— Radiolab (@Radiolab) June 2, 2023
TECH
MyNoise. This app for generating ambient sounds is perfect for relaxation, meditation, or concentration. With a wide variety of customizable soundscapes to choose from, you can create the perfect environment for any mood or activity.
THE NEXT BIG THING...
Ringdown. This innovative new technology uses sound waves to detect and locate hidden objects, making it a potential game-changer for fields like archaeology and geology. Keep an eye on Ringdown's development and see where this exciting new technology takes us.
Folks’ Music by the Louth Contemporary Music Society, will take place at various venues around Dundalk from June 16th - 17th - find out more here.
