The National Concert Hall, Part II

The last time we were in Dublin was on May 22nd, which, even though the calendar says ten weeks ago, seems more like ten years. We've traveled thousands of miles, by plane, boat, auto, and train – and now we are back in Dublin's fair city, but only for 24 hours.


Ten weeks ago it was the Notre Dame Folk Choir singing in the National Concert Hall, albeit in the more intimate venue called the John Field Room. But this time, Michele and I were given a pair of tickets to hear Anúna, one of Ireland's premier vocal ensembles. It was the Choir's twenty-fifth anniversary concert, and by chance or good fortune our itinerary lined up with the event.

Click HERE to have a listen to this amazing ensemble!

Our presence at this concert, though, was more than just for a night of great music. In just over three weeks, the Folk Choir is going to be back in Ireland, singing with Anúna at Dublin's O2 Centre. Singing in Irish, it's an event which will be part pep rally, part concert. And we have a lot of work to do to prepare for this huge trip back to the land of our ancestors.

And – the thing is already sold out.

This is not, of course, the most important reason for our trip back to Eire. Hours before the ND/Navy game, an open-air Mass will be celebrated at 9AM Irish time, in Dublin Castle's courtyard. And there are other liturgical celebrations that we will have a hand in as well, including a Sunday liturgy at 11:00AM Irish time, hosted by St. Mary's on Haddington Road.

So now, even as our travels are coming to an end, we are beginning to look ahead, and to move into high gear!

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Location:Dublin, Ireland