Ireland’s orchestral talent will share the stage with internationally acclaimed opera stars this month as the festival embarks on its most ambitious programme so far.
The Esker Festival Orchestra and Choir, founded in Galway in 2014, is established as one of Ireland’s leading orchestral and choral festivals.
Running from August 18-23, the 2026 festival marks several major firsts, including its first-ever opera and dedicated family concerts.
Unique in its member-led approach, the orchestra is run by its musicians, creating an environment where young artists develop their craft while building lasting professional networks and collaborations.
A centrepiece of the 2026 festival will be concert performances of Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana, conducted by Artistic Director Peter Joyce.
The festival’s orchestral programme includes Brahms’ Symphony No. 2, Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Ethel Smyth’s spirited overture to The Boatswain’s Mate, showcasing repertoire that reflects the festival’s theme ‘Rustic Delights and Dangers’.
Esker Festival will also present concerts designed especially for younger audiences.
Three performances of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf at the University of Galway’s Emily Anderson Concert Hall will introduce families to the excitement of live orchestral music through storytelling, humour and adventure.
The festival also welcomes the acclaimed Kandinsky Quartet, Esker Festival’s ensemble-in-residence, for a special chamber music performance.
Alongside its public concerts, the festival continues its commitment to developing the next generation of professional musicians by providing opportunities in orchestral and choral performance, composition, collaboration and artistic leadership.
Peter Joyce, Artistic Director of the Esker Festival Orchestra and Choir, said, “This year is a real festival of firsts for Esker.” But, “as always, we relish the challenge of performing the masterworks.”
Festival performances take place across Galway and Dublin from August 18-23.
Tickets cost €10 – €35, with a Galway Festival Pass available for €60.
For more information visit www.eskerfestivalorchestra.com
