Founded in 1981, the Dublin-based Hibernian Orchestra has grown into one of Ireland’s most respected voluntary orchestras. For more than four decades, the ensemble has brought together musicians from a wide range of backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to musical excellence and a genuine love of performance.

The orchestra’s membership reflects the richness of musical life in Ireland today. Alongside music teachers and students, the ensemble includes emerging professional musicians, performers pursuing careers outside music, and an increasing number of musicians who trained internationally and now live and work in Ireland. This diversity gives the orchestra both its character and its distinctive sound.

Under the baton of conductor and Musical Director John Finucane, the Hibernian Orchestra maintains a rigorous rehearsal schedule, meeting weekly from September through to May or June. That dedication is reflected in performances presented in Dublin and at venues throughout Ireland.

The orchestra’s repertoire spans the breadth of the musical landscape, from early works to newly commissioned pieces, and its concert history includes collaborations with many of Ireland’s most distinguished musicians, as well as established and emerging soloists from Ireland and around the world. Former soloists include Finghin Collins, Philip Martin, Michael McHale, Martin Johnson, Michael d’Arcy, Cara O’Sullivan, Helena Wood, Mia Cooper, Christopher and Anthony Marwood, Claudia Boyle, and Patrick Rafter.

Alongside its concert work, the orchestra is committed to nurturing the next generation of performers through its annual Concerto Competition, which gives young soloists a valuable platform on which to perform and develop. That balance of ambition, opportunity and artistic excellence has been at the heart of the orchestra for more than four decades.