Music-lovers were recently treated to an intimate performance from two-time GRAMMY Award-winning musician Rhiannon Giddens at University of Limerick as part of a new series launched by the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance.
Folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Giddens, an artist-in-residence at the Irish World Academy, performed songs and stories from her repertoire for an audience of students and community partners attending the inaugural event of the new Irish World Academy Artist Series, on 13 February.
Giddens, a Pulitzer Prize winner and recipient of the prestigious MacArthur “Genius” grant, kept her audience enthralled throughout the hour-long performance in the intimate surroundings of the Academy’s Theatre 1.
The series is presented in partnership with the UL Foundation as part of the Academy’s 30th anniversary legacy initiative, with Giddens waiving her performance fee. All proceeds from the event will now go to the Academy Stepping Stones scholarships which support students from culturally rich but economically challenged context to pursue postgraduate study at the Irish World Academy.
Professor Helen Phelan, Director of the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, said: “Rhiannon’s ability to lift up people through music, and to shine a light on marginalised cultures and histories aligns strongly with the ethos of the Academy and the Stepping Stones scholarships. We are so fortunate to have an artist of her calibre and integrity inspiring and supporting our students.”
Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development at the UL Foundation, said: “The Stepping Stones Scholarships at the Irish World Academy has already made a significant impact, supporting over 100 gifted students across every continent since its inception. Our goal through this programme is to address social inequalities, and we aspire to continue this vital work with the support of as many donors as possible.”
The event took place almost exactly a year to the day that the internationally renowned Academy kicked off its anniversary celebrations in a colourful display of music, dance and creative expression on campus. As part of a year-long schedule of events, the Academy has hosted workshops, seminars and performances, with the launch of Luail – Ireland’s first all-island dance company – a particular highlight.
For more information, visit the Irish World Academy of the Music and Dance website.
Anyone wishing to support the Stepping Stones Scholarships can do so by making an online donation.