SYMPHONY OF THE IRISH BAGPIPES: Mark Redmond, Lithuanian Symphonic Wind Orchestra

This concert is organized in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Ireland to mark Ireland's presidency of the Council of the European Union. The axis of the program is a dialogue between two cultures, where the Irish bagpipes and the Lithuanian Symphonic Wind Orchestra meet, embodying the idea of fellowship and European partnership. The first part features M. K. Čiurlionis's symphonic poem "In the Forest" and works by American classic A. Copland, bridging the gap between national identity and universal values. The culmination of the concert is a special premiere of a work by Shaun Davey, in which Irish bagpipe virtuoso Mark Redmond masterfully combines tradition and modernity with Lithuanian performers.

Shaun Davey is one of Ireland's most prominent contemporary composers, whose work combines Irish folk music and classical orchestral traditions. His monumental works are often dedicated to Irish history and culture, and his most famous works, such as The Brendan Voyage, have made the Irish bagpipes famous in a symphonic context worldwide. Davey has won a prestigious Ivor Novello Award, two BAFTA nominations, and a Tony nomination for his music for Broadway musicals.

Mark Redmond is a master of the uilleann pipes who has gained recognition in both traditional and classical music scenes. M. Redmond has performed with ensembles such as the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra and played in the famous "Riverdance" show. He has performed at major state events in Ireland, including during Pope Francis's visit and Queen Elizabeth II's official visit to Ireland. The performer currently teaches traditional music at the Royal Irish Academy of Music.