Xenia Pestova Bennett and Dara McAnulty: Words, music and nature

This unique performance blends evocative storytelling with classical and contemporary piano music, transporting audiences to the stunning seascapes and wild places of Northern Ireland. Dara will share reflections on birdsong, landscape, and the natural world, drawn from his award-winning writing, while Xenia performs musical masterpieces that echo the rhythms and textures of nature.

The programme will include beloved piano pieces by Debussy, Ravel and Martinu alongside transformative music by Irish composers. In addition to the concert grand piano, a miniature toy piano will also make a quirky appearance, delighting audiences of all ages.

They will be joined by acclaimed composer Ed Bennett, who will weave live and recorded soundscapes using field recordings from the Irish coast, creating an immersive audio journey. Expect a powerful and poetic celebration of place, nature, and creative collaboration.