The Sligo Baroque Music Festival begins on September 26, 2024, with an opening concert titled “Corelliana,” performed by the Vespres d’Amadi Baroque Orchestra under the direction of Dani Espasa. Taking place at St. John’s Cathedral in Sligo, Ireland, this festival celebrates baroque music in all its forms, including opera. Despite the growing presence of classical music and opera in Ireland, the festival has remained relatively low-profile, prompting interest from entities such as OperaWire, which is drawn to this year’s imaginative lineup featuring a community opera and a performance of Vivaldi’s “Gloria.”
To gain insights into the festival’s evolution, we spoke with Nicola Cleary, the festival’s artistic director for the past five years, who remains actively involved despite stepping down from her role.
Festival Origins and Growth
Cleary explained that the festival is rooted in the picturesque northwest of Ireland, specifically the vibrant city of Sligo, known for its cultural heritage and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The festival was founded in 1995 by Rod Alston, a passionate baroque music enthusiast. Alston initiated the festival out of necessity, as he found it challenging to travel for baroque concerts due to Sligo’s relative isolation.
Over the years, the festival has expanded significantly. Although it still runs for just three days each September, it has attracted a larger audience and high-caliber international artists. Cleary noted the positive impact on the local community, with many residents now attending and participating in festival events.
Innovative Productions and Community Engagement
The festival has successfully staged two operas in previous years. In 2023, it presented Händel’s “Acis and Galatea,” featuring marionettes that interacted with the singers, which sold out completely. The following year saw the production of Purcell’s “The Fairy Queen,” showcasing young Irish talent alongside baroque dance routines.
This year, the festival introduces a community youth opera titled “Murder at Midnight.” Composed and performed by local youths aged 12 to 17, this production reflects both baroque influences and contemporary themes. Cleary emphasized that the young performers have been actively involved in every aspect, from text to music, with guidance from music expert Anna Mullarky. The ensemble will accompany the performance, with Cleary herself playing the violin.
The festival’s schedule also includes a variety of concerts, recitals, and workshops. Highlights include an early morning concert by the Woodpeckers Recorder Quartet from Sweden and a talk and recital by harpist Siobhan Armstrong. The festival will conclude with a gala concert titled “Viva Vivaldi” at St. John’s Cathedral, featuring Vivaldi’s “Gloria” and performances by local singers and the Drumcliffe Children’s Choir.
Cleary expressed excitement about the festival’s future under the new artistic director, Sharon Carty, who aims to enhance the vocal elements of the festival and further involve the community. Plans include the formation of a festival chorus and the potential for regular baroque opera productions.
In summary, the Sligo Baroque Music Festival stands as a testament to the power of community engagement and the enduring appeal of baroque music. With innovative programming and a commitment to inclusivity, this year’s festival promises to be a memorable celebration of artistic expression in Sligo.