The Sacred Heart University (SHU) band traveled internationally from Jan. 2 to Jan. 11. The SHU Band started their trip in Dingle, Ireland where they spent three days and performed two concerts. One concert was performed by the full band ensemble while the second was a small ensemble concert.
The band then ventured to the Cliffs of Moher as a quick stop on their way to Galway. The band also stayed in Galway for three days and had a second full concert in Limerick. The trip concluded in Dublin which is where they had their final concert.
Instagram, @shu_band
Instagram, @shu_band
The performances took place at St. Mary’s Church
and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart in Dingle, the Galway Christmas Market, St. Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick and Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin. The band’s tour also included performing the European premiere of composer Steven Rosenhaus’ “JFK: A Profile,” where Dr. Rosenhaus conducted the students according to a Jan. 4 post on @shu_ band on Instagram.
The trip’s performances consisted of SHU’s main concert band ensemble along with a few SHU color guard members as well as string members from the orchestra.
“This was only my second time traveling internationally, so I was really excited to be exposed to different cultures outside of the U.S. The scenery was breathtaking and unlike anything I had ever seen before,” said senior Ellie Brady. “I had a lot of fun getting to experience the different cities as
well. Galway was definitely my favorite. It had a really nice downtown area that was full of live music and great food.”
The band travels internationally every other year and this same trip has been done in past years. The last time the band was able to do this exact trip through Dingle, Galway, and Dublin was the same time the COVID-19 pandemic was first starting in 2020, according to Brady.
As a senior, she was happy to be able to experience a trip like this one more time with the rest of her bandmates.
“I love being in the band program. Ever since I was a freshman, the people involved in the program and the instructors have felt like a second family here at SHU. I’m glad I was able to share this experience with everyone before I graduate in May,” Brady said.
