Ahead of the final phase of reopening the country later this month, the National Concert Hall have announced a special live-streamed concert, taking place at 8pm this Friday, July 17, to remember those who have passed away during the Covid-19 crisis.

The evening will see Ireland's leading choral ensemble, Chamber Choir Ireland and the Chamber Ensemble perform Fauré's Requiem – presented live on the National Concert Hall stage and conducted by Andrew Synnott.

Entitled 'ELEGY', the concert will be broadcast live from the NCH's YouTube and Facebook pages, and will also feature lauded singer and Gloaming member Iarla O'Lionaird performing 'Eistigh Liomsa Sealad'; Grammy Award-winning Rhiannon Giddens and jazz and classical pianist Francesco Turrisi joining forces on 'Wayfaring Stranger'; and baroque violinist Claire Duff performing Biber’s Passacaglia in G minor.

"At a time of loss and reflection music has the special power to comfort and provide solace and also helps us endure and recover," says Maura McGrath, Chair of the National Concert Hall. "We at the NCH especially wish to take time to remember those who have sadly passed away and also to reflect on all who are experiencing loss at this time. As the national centre for music, we at the NCH have gathered musicians of various genres to come together for this unique performance which we hope provides hope and comfort during this time".

The Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht added that this "has been a profoundly difficult time for the country and it is important that we take time to remember those who have been lost and those who are in mourning. Music provides an opportunity to express that grief and loss without the necessity of words. It also provides a space of time for us to reflect on the last number of months.”