Garda Band to perform at Bound for Canada Irish premiere in Mayo

FOLLOWING the successful international premiere of Bound for Canada: A Musical Journey from Hardship to Hope in Toronto, the Irish premiere will take place in Ballina Arts Centre on December 5 and 6.

A key highlight of the event will be the performance by musicians of The Garda Band, led by Pat Kenny, musical director, who will conduct the orchestra for this special occasion.

This 80-minute orchestral suite, composed by Dr. Odhrán Ó Casaide, forms the centrepiece of his recently completed doctoral research at Dundalk Institute of Technology.

The work pays tribute to the resilience and courage of the Irish Famine migrants who, in 1847, embarked on their perilous journeys in search of a new life. It also serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the compassionate people of Canada who provided refuge, care, and hope to the thousands of Irish men, women, and children who arrived on those distant shores during one of the darkest chapters in our shared history.

The evening will include a welcome from Councillor Seán Carey, cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, and special guests, Minister Dara Calleary and Robert G. Kearns, founding chair, Canada Ireland Foundation.

The orchestra features the following performers: Sibéal (sean-nós vocalist), Ellen Fair (soprano), Patrick Lacken (tenor), Dr. Odhrán Ó Casaide, Maitiú Ó Casaide (uilleann pipes), The Garda Band and St. Muredach's Cathedral Choir.

All proceeds from both evenings will go directly to Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation to support its future development of The Sunflower Children’s Hospice in Mayo.

To book tickets for the event, visit ballinaartscentre.com. To make a donation, see hospice.ie.