'Setting the Tone: Mná na hÉireann' - Recital at Vienna's Ehrbar Saal

Ambassador O'Leary welcomed an audience compiled of members of the Irish community in Austria who gathered for this unique event in Vienna's Ehrbar Saal on 22 April to honour the ongoing contribution of Irish female composers to the music, arts and culture of Ireland, both nationally and internationally.

Two amazing female musicians joined forces for a fantastic evening of entertainment. Flautist Miriam Kaczor, who is originally from Poland but grew up in Dublin, was joined by pianist and Cavan native Elaine Loebenstein, and together they performed a diverse programme of contemporary and historical works by composers including Mary Dickenson Auner, Linda Buckley, Augusta Holmès, Jennifer Walshe, Rhona Clarke and Solfa Carlile. Audience members also gained a fascinating insight into the lives and struggles of each composer from Miriam and Elaine before each piece was performed.

The evening was funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs as part of its efforts to promote St. Brigid's Day and the achievements of Irish women internationally. The full 'Setting the Tone: Mná na hÉireann' programme is shown below, and a huge thanks must be given to Elaine and Miriam for delivering a wonderful performance on the evening.