ESB Feis Ceoil 2009

Four thousand musicians and singers from all over Ireland took part in the 2009 ESB Feis Ceoil. The event, now in its 113th year, was launched on Thursday, March 12th in Dublin by ESB Chief Executive, Padraig McManus, and soprano Virginia Kerr. It took place from Monday, March 23rd to Friday, April 3rd in three Dublin venues, the RDS Ballsbridge, St. Mary's Church, Donnybrook, and St. Bartholomew's Church, Clyde Road.

ESB is the title sponsor of Feis Ceoil and the event this year featured more than 180 competitions across all musical disciplines, involving the participation of almost 4,000 competitors from all over the island of Ireland.

Speaking at the launch, Padraig McManus said that ESB Feis Ceoil continues to set the standard of performance in classical music. "Feis Ceoil has a particular resonance in the Irish psyche. It has been part of our youth and the sheer volume of participation is a testament to its enduring quality."

He added, "The community-based element of the competition appeals very strongly to us at ESB, as involvement in local communities is an integral part of our activities throughout Ireland".

In addition to the regular Feis Ceoil events, this year saw the inaugural 'ESB Feis Ceoil Choir of the Year' competition. Winning choirs competed for the title and a specially commissioned trophy and award of €3,000.