Irish Chamber Orchestra is known for its fresh angles and inventive programming, and the Brothers Haydn is exactly the kind of sideways glance at repertoire ICO does best. This Haydn journey can be enjoyed in all its glory at the Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin on May 15th.
In this concert, Classical style unfolds in real time. Michael Haydn’s Symphony in D major opens in sunshine, warm and radiant. Joseph Haydn’s Violin Concerto in G major is more personal and playful, full of sparkle, charm and intimate conversation between Violinist Carolin Widmannand orchestra. Haydnsurprises us as his Symphony No. 45 “Farewell”steps into darker, more restless territory, becoming dramatic, daring, and unexpectedly moving. What begins in light gradually reveals deeper shadows, ending not with grandeur but with one of the most touching gestures in all music.
No stranger to ICO audiences, violinist Carolin Widmann brings rare clarity, intelligence, and a sense of discovery. Her lean, luminous tone suits Haydn perfectly. Every phrase is shaped with intention, every gesture sparkles with wit and colour. She draws listeners from the warmth of Michael Haydn to the emotional intensity of Joseph’s “Farewell” Symphony, setting the stage for the drama that follows.
Overall, Brothers Haydn is a journey through three shades of the Classical spirit – light and shadow, charm and tension, public brilliance, and private emotion. It’s a chance to hear familiar works reframed, and lesser-known music revealed in all its beauty.
Widmann & ICO play at the Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin at 7.30pm on May 15th. Tickets here.
Thanks to the valued support of The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Irish Chamber Orchestra continues to delight, surprise, and inspire audiences. Based at the University of Limerick, ICO performs nationally and internationally, where every concert is an invitation to connect with the music, the artists, and each other.
Brothers Haydn
Irish Chamber Orchestra Carolin Widmann Director/Violin
Michael Haydn Symphony, MH 287 (P.43), D major
Joseph Haydn Violin Concerto in G Major Hob. VIIa:4
Joseph Haydn Symphony No. 45, F-sharp minor, Farewell Symphony
Friday 15 May Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin €30, €25, €10, €5
