The Inaugural Waterford International Organ Festival

The first Waterford International Organ Festival took place on 11-13 June 2021, featuring performances by internationally acclaimed organists from France, Germany, Ireland, Japan and Switzerland.  The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about major rethinking in the presentation of live music and its content. Thanks to ever developing technology, The Waterford International Organ Festival not only presented performers from Ireland and abroad, but also included all of them in each of the recitals playing the instruments of which they have charge.  The concerts took the listener through the emotional journeys of Despair, Promise and Hope. Two composers featured in each programme, Johann Sebastian Bach and Eric Sweeney. Dr. Sweeney, composer, organist, conductor and teacher, was in charge of music at Christ Church Cathedral in Waterford from 1991 until his retirement in 2018. Eric, who sadly passed away in July of last year, was a much loved and respected friend and colleague, especially of those who worked with him in the cathedral. His works were performed in memoriam.

The Inaugural Waterford International Organ Festival was generously supported by the Church of Ireland Priorities Fund and Waterford City and County Council.