The festival’s opening featured an Irish Day, celebrating the rich folk traditions of Ireland and America. The concert delighted the audience with hauntingly beautiful harp tunes and lively jigs and reels. Acclaimed Irish harpist Alannah Thornburgh, a celebrated musician and composer from the west of Ireland, brought her award-winning artistry to the stage. Her music blends traditional Irish harp melodies with elements from American folk and jazz traditions, showcasing her ability to bridge genres with fluidity and ease. Among the pieces performed, Glór na Sí, Chasing the Hare, Branjo, and Wolves in the Woods were Thornburgh’s own compositions, each reflecting her unique style and deep connection to her Irish roots. Thornburgh is also set to release her debut album, Shapeshifter, in 2024, featuring compositions inspired by the folklore and mythology of her home county, Mayo.

The festival is a collaborative effort between the Mendelssohn Society and the Irish Embassy in Berlin, with additional support from the Embassy of Iceland. This event is also part of the “Zeitgeist Irland 24” initiative by Culture Ireland and the Irish Embassy in Germany, which celebrates Irish culture abroad.

Following the concert, the Irish Embassy’s press attaché expressed heartfelt thanks to the Mendelssohn-Gesellschaft and the director of the Mendelssohn-Remise for their partnership in bringing this special event to life. The opening day concluded with a reception featuring drinks and snacks, where attendees had the opportunity to mingle and celebrate the festival’s successful launch.

The festival will continue through August 20, with various performances and activities dedicated to traditional Irish music and culture. This further highlights the rich cultural exchange fostered by this annual event.