The Irish Four Seasons
The Irish Four Seasons is a twenty-two minute concerto for violin and chamber orchestra. This piece was commissioned in 2022 by Irish violinist Lynda O’Connor as a companion piece to the Vivaldi Four Seasons for her album ‘The Irish Seasons’, released on the Avie label on 2 August 2024. The world premiere took place five days after its release at Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival, Ireland.
McDonagh composed the piece in four movements, each one depicting one of the seasons of the year. The Irish Four Seasons is a classical composition but traditional Irish influences can be heard throughout. O’Connor and McDonagh have been friends and chamber music partners for over 20 years. There is something very special about composing a work for someone whose playing you know intimately. O’Connor is a stunning soloist in the classical arena but is also a phenomenal traditional Irish musician so there was no limitation to McDonagh’s composition.
Movements:
i. Earrach (Spring - ar’akh)
ii. Samhradh (Summer - sow’rah)
iii. Fómhar (Autumn - four’)
iv. Geimhreadh (Winter - gie’rah)
This sheet music purchase comes with the following files:
- the sheet music for the full score
- the sheet music for all the parts
- programme notes
Watch: YouTube
Listen: Spotify