The first Feis Ceoil had 32 competitions, 12 of which were for composition, 6 for vocal ensemble and the rest for solo performance. It is an essential element in the musical infrastructure of the country and has made an immeasurable contribution to the study and cultivation of music at all levels in Ireland.
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October 11, 2015
- 24:01
ESB Feis Ceoil: In Time
The ESB Feis Ceoil is an Irish institution. Founded in 1896 to counteract the neglect of music development in this country, the ESB Feis Ceoil continues to thrive as the country’s foremost competition for young classical music talent. Each year, the ESB Feis Ceoil features over 5000 competitors, representing all 32 counties, taking part in over 185 separate competitions over a fortnight of events. A roll call of former competitors includes James Joyce and Count John McCormack, alongside more contemporary names such as pianist John O’Connor, Regina Nathan, Cara O’Sullivan and even comedian Risteard Cooper.