The Irish Chamber Orchestra performed in front of a live audience of 290 patrons at University Concert Hall (UCH) in Limerick today, as part of a series of pilot events initiated by the Government under the country's reopening plans.
The orchestra, which consists of up 19 musicians, appeared with accordionist Dermot Dunne, directed by Katherine Hunka, for an afternoon of tango music.
Mr Dunne also performed a seldom heard concerto by Molique, in addition to a number of compositions by Piazzolla.
The Irish Chamber Orchestra has not played live since a short lunchtime concert at the National Concert Hall in Dublin last December.
Its last appearance before that was 'Back with a Bang' at UCH in Limerick last September.
The orchestra released a series of virtual performances entitled 'I Create Online' earlier this year, in which a number of popular music compositions were partnered with the work of photographers, mime artists, animators and writers, to keep in touch with their audiences.
The performances were a major success.
The orchestra appeared in front of 290 patrons today at UCH, which can normally accommodate 1,100 audience members.
Speaking before the event, Communications Manger Charlotte Eglington said the orchestra was very much looking forward to performing live again.
She said tickets for this pilot performance went on general sale and were sold out very quickly.
This afternoon's concert was directed by lead violinist Katherine Hunka, who said the orchestra was eager to get back on stage, and that its absence from regular live performances had been horrendous for the performers and for all involved in the arts sector during the past year of the pandemic.
"The interaction that happens with the audience and musicians is what the live performances are all about. To see people's faces and let music reach into their souls, that's what its all about," she said.
ICO Chief Executive Gerard Keenan said it was just wonderful to see the joy in the faces of both orchestra and audience after what has been a very challenging year for everyone, but particularly for all of those in the arts sector, and performers are just so happy to be back.
Sinead Hope, Director of University Concern Hall Limerick said they were delighted to be open again. All audience members were masked and were well spaced out in the auditorium. She said she hopes its the start of many more performances as they head into summer and autumn.
The Irish Chamber Orchestra has up to 30 musicians performing with it, and is based at the World Academy of Music at the University of Limerick.
It made its permanent home there in 1995 and has its own rehearsal and recording space.
