Two of Ireland’s most celebrated young musicians are about to begin an exciting engagement as Musicians-in Residence at the University’s Magee campus. 

From Monday 5 December to Friday 9 December violinist Darragh Morgan and pianist Mary Dullea will lead a packed programme of workshops, master-classes and performances.  A second, equally intensive, visit will follow in the spring.

Born in Belfast in 1974, Darragh has already established himself across Europe as one of the foremost new-music soloists.  He has given numerous recitals and festival performances around the world and has worked with many of the world’s leading contemporary music groups such as Ensemble Modern and the London Sinfonietta. From 1999-2001 Darragh was leader of the Cyprus State Orchestra and throughout 2004 was Concertmaster of the KZN Philharmonic in Durban, South Africa.

As a recording artist he has worked with a diverse range of artists including David Bowie, Jamiroquai, Paul McCartney, Micheal O Suilleabhain, The Divine Comedy, Noirin Ni Riain and the late Derek Bell of The Chieftains. His own CD Cusp for Black Box is due out shortly, with Opera for NMC scheduled for early 2006.

Mary, originally from County Cork, was awarded the coveted Edith Best Scholarship at the Feis Ceoil, Dublin in 1991, enabling her to take up a place at the Royal College of Music, London.  Much in demand as a chamber musician, recent engagements have included prestigious festivals and broadcasts for BBC Radio 3 and French Television. She is a member of the Fidelio Trio, with whom she has performed all over the world, and an increasingly sought-after interpreter of new music.

Professor Desmond Hunter, Head of the School of Media and Performing Arts at UU said:  “The Musicians-in-Residence initiative, which is presented in partnership with the Music Division and the Cultural Development Support Scheme, brings top class musicians to the Magee campus to work intensively with our own music students over a period of time.  Mary and Darragh will also be available during each visit to lead workshops with local schools and to present informal performances in hospitals and community centres across the city.”

Darragh and Mary will present a lunchtime concert in the Great Hall, Magee campus at 1.15pm on Tuesday 6 December.  The duo will perform Schumann’s Sonata in A minor as well as the Irish premiere of a new piece by Marcel Reuter and the world premiere of Hunshingo by Simon Mawhinney.  Tickets are available on the door.

Further details on the Musicians-in-Residence initiative are available from the Cultural Development Office on (028) 7137 5658.

For further information, please contact:

Trina Porter
Telephone: 028 71675511
Email: Trina Porter