is where music, community, and place come together. We exist to make exceptional music and musicians a vibrant part of everyday life, reaching people of all ages, back-grounds, and abilities across Galway City and County.
A music residency programme rooted in the soul of Galway, our identity is inspired by connection, between people, between past and present, and between music and place.
We bring music and musicians beyond the stage, into schools, nursing homes, community halls, and public spaces. We nurture young talent, support emerging artists, and collaborate across art forms to create experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable.
MusicConnects is music that moves Galway emotionally, socially, and culturally.
In 2002, a group of people dedicated to creating listening opportunities in their community had an ambitious idea – to bring an internationally renowned classical music ensemble to Galway to enrich the lives of its citizens. With support from local institutions, the organisation MusicConnects was born (previously known as Galway Music Residency).
Following a competitive international audition process, the ConTempo Quartet was chosen as MusicConnects’ Ensemble in Residence. This young and vibrant quartet, comprised of two married couples, had formed in Bucharest Romania, and already had an impressive career of performances, recordings and awards under its belt. The ensemble had, as well as its unparalleled musical talent, a spark that made the selection panel believe they would bring something truly special to the people of Galway. Ever since ConTempo Quartet took up their residency in 2003, this has remained true, and the quartet is committed to continuing its residency for as long as it can make a positive impact on its adopted community.
Meet our Ensemble in Residence – The Galway ConTempo Quartet »
This unique long-term residency has allowed MusicConnects to develop enduring relationships with individuals, communities, artists and organisations, creating meaningful connections throughout Galway. Over the past 22 years, MusicConnects has developed a remarkable and ever-evolving suite of education and performance programmes to serve diverse audiences and under-served communities in Galway, presenting some of the best music ever composed in new and unexpected ways.
At the core of our work has been the goal of breaking down the barrier that traditionally separates the audience, the general public, from classical music and musicians. We present music in interactive ways, in unexpected venues, giving people of all walks of life meaningful experiences of music and encouraging the next generation of music lovers.
We hope you enjoy our musical offerings…
Come on this journey with us. Help us make many generations of musicians and music lovers in Galway and beyond.
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