I want to tell you about my favourite monthly and weekly music events in Dublin. I have chosen these because they are a bit different from the usual gigs in a pub or huge concerts in the O2. So if you're up for trying something new and interesting, keep reading. :)
My favourite monthly music event in Dublin is Kaleidoscope Night. It was created 4 years ago by violinist Cliodhna Ryan and cellist Kate Ellis. It takes place in the Odessa Club on the first Wednesday of every month, and tickets cost only €10.00.
My favourite monthly music event in Dublin is Kaleidoscope Night. It was created 4 years ago by violinist Cliodhna Ryan and cellist Kate Ellis. It takes place in the Odessa Club on the first Wednesday of every month, and tickets cost only €10.00.
The website says that "Kaleidoscope night, described by the Irish Times “one of those life-saving, spirit-lifting, pioneering Cultural Ventures we keep hearing about” brings a vibrant, dynamic musical experience to audiences and performers. Innovative and imaginative programming offers a diverse range of music from ancient to contemporary and experimental in a relaxed, intimate and beautiful setting." I couldn't agree more.
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You can expect to hear anything from solo instrumental pieces or arias to duets, trios, quartets, all the way to the Mendelssohn Octet. There is always an eclectic mix of genres: there can be baroque, classical, contemporary and trad all in the one night. The program always flows perfectly, despite so many different styles.
I have heard some premieres of beautiful pieces at Kaleidoscope, and the best thing about those is that the composer is usually present and performing their piece together with other musicians. Kaleidoscope is a great opportunity for young and upcoming composers and musicians to showcase their talent, while at the same time there are "regulars" who perform almost each month, including the two curators.
The vibe of the night is always welcoming and relaxed. There is nothing posh or exclusive about this event. Everyone just relaxes with their glass of wine/beer and listens to the beautiful music.
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| Intimate venue at the Odessa |
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| Kate Ellis |
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| Cliodhna Ryan |
If you want to experience something different and escape into a magic world for a couple of hours, Kaleidoscope is the event to go to. Apart from the "normal" nights, there are also some special events. We went to Kaleidoscope's 4th birthday party in the Sugar Club recently. It was an amazing night of outstanding music, which also featured a drinks reception and an after party with a great jazz band! :) Every year, Kaleidoscope Night goes on a tour to visit different cities in Ireland and bring their performances do new audiences. To keep up with their events, visit their website, Facebook page, or follow them on Twitter.
All pictures above © Kaleidoscope Facebook page
After Kaleidoscope Night, you will most likely experience severe music withdrawal symptoms. But fear not, there are many great weekly events in Dublin to keep you happy and entertained.
My favourite weekly event is Gin & Jazz Thursday in the Mint Bar at the Westin Hotel. The Mint Bar is a great venue which has recently won the "2013 Bar of the Year Awards". It is located in former bank vaults in the basement of the Westin and offers very good food, delicious cocktails and great service.
Every Thursday, they bring together great Jazz music and delicious G&Ts. What could be better? Here's what: There is no entry fee and that delish G&T is only a fiver! There are many special cocktail promotions on the night, and some tasty cocktail bites to nibble on while you listen to Cary Posavitz and the Players performing all the Jazz classics and even your requests! Cary was the first American vocalist in Riverdance and has starred in many famous international productions. Together with his brilliant and extremely entertaining band, he sets the perfect atmosphere to lean back, enjoy your G&T and start your weekend early.
Cary and the Players play gigs around Dublin and are also available for bookings if you want to jazz up your next big event. Check their website and Facebook page for more details.
If you've been looking for something new to try, why not check out one of these events, or even both? I hope you will enjoy them!
If you have any great events to share, please do let me know, I'm always looking for interesting music in and around Dublin.
All pictures above © Kaleidoscope Facebook page
After Kaleidoscope Night, you will most likely experience severe music withdrawal symptoms. But fear not, there are many great weekly events in Dublin to keep you happy and entertained.
My favourite weekly event is Gin & Jazz Thursday in the Mint Bar at the Westin Hotel. The Mint Bar is a great venue which has recently won the "2013 Bar of the Year Awards". It is located in former bank vaults in the basement of the Westin and offers very good food, delicious cocktails and great service.
Every Thursday, they bring together great Jazz music and delicious G&Ts. What could be better? Here's what: There is no entry fee and that delish G&T is only a fiver! There are many special cocktail promotions on the night, and some tasty cocktail bites to nibble on while you listen to Cary Posavitz and the Players performing all the Jazz classics and even your requests! Cary was the first American vocalist in Riverdance and has starred in many famous international productions. Together with his brilliant and extremely entertaining band, he sets the perfect atmosphere to lean back, enjoy your G&T and start your weekend early.
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| © Cary Posavitz and the Players Facebook Page |
If you've been looking for something new to try, why not check out one of these events, or even both? I hope you will enjoy them!
If you have any great events to share, please do let me know, I'm always looking for interesting music in and around Dublin.
