East Meets West

This concerts features an exceptional programme of music from China in the East to Latvia in the West encapsulating the similarities and contrasts from the 18th century to present day. Both of these musicians have made Ireland their home embracing the culture and opportunity and bringing their own rich musical heritages with them. Guangyue Du (Rachel) moved to Ireland from China in 2000 following her studies at the Shenyang Conservatory of Music. After subsequent studies at the DIT Conservatory of Music Dublin, she graduated with a MA in Classical String Performance from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick and embarked on a successful career as a performer and educator. Originally from Latvia, pianist Didzis Kalniņš enjoys an advancing career as a soloist, chamber musician, researcher and educator. In 2023, he was conferred with a Doctorate in Music Performance by the Royal Irish Academy of Music & Trinity College Dublin.  Compère Eileen Dunne.