A Kilkenny local is bringing a world-class Canadian youth choir back to her home city this May, creating a special musical collaboration with local young singers in St Canice’s Cathedral.
Áine Mahony, originally from Kilkenny, is Executive Director of the internationally acclaimed Vancouver Youth Choir, where she has worked for the past 11 years. She is now helping to bring the ensemble to Kilkenny for a one-night-only performance on Tuesday, May 5 at 8pm.
Founded in 2013 by Artistic Director Carrie Tennant, the Vancouver Youth Choir has earned a global reputation for its innovative programming and high-performance standards. The ensemble brings together singers aged 15 to 24 and has appeared on major international stages across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Their visit to Kilkenny comes as part of a wider Irish tour, following an appearance at the prestigious Cork International Choral Festival, where they will compete for the Fleischmann International Trophy. Audiences in Kilkenny will have the rare opportunity to hear elements of this competition programme, including contemporary works, global repertoire, and Canadian compositions.
Speaking about the homecoming concert, Aine said the event is particularly meaningful.
“It’s really special to be able to bring this group to Kilkenny and connect them with young singers here,” she said. “There’s something powerful about sharing music across cultures, especially in a place as beautiful and historic as St Canice’s Cathedral.
The concert will feature a unique collaboration with Music Generation’s Kilkenny Youth Choir, with its blend of local talent, international excellence, and the grandeur of one of Kilkenny’s most iconic venues, the May 5th concert is set to be a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.
Following their Kilkenny performance, the Vancouver Youth Choir will travel to Dublin to perform with New Dublin Voices at Newman University Church on May 6.
