Peace Prom gig for local musicians as part of Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland

​The orchestra features a number of members from Newry and across County Down, and having played in Limerick and Dublin, they are due to take to the stage at the SSE Arena in Belfast on Sunday, February 26 at 1pm and 8pm.

Established in 1995, the CBOI has been at the forefront of music education while promoting peace, unity, and tolerance on the island of Ireland. Peace Proms 2024 will be a testament to their remarkable work and achievements.

These inspirational concerts will feature 35,000 children from every corner of Ireland and Northern Ireland, collectively forming the Children’s Peace Choirs who will perform alongside the 130-member internationally acclaimed Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland. Under the direction of the distinguished conductor Maestro Greg Beardsell and led by Dundalk's own violinist Richie Dunne, this event promises to be an awe-inspiring celebration of youth, music, and talent on an epic scale.

Having graced iconic venues worldwide, such as the Royal Albert Hall in London, Chicago Symphony Hall, the Oriental Arts Centre in Shanghai, and more, the CBOI continues to garner international acclaim. In 2023, the orchestra marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement with a historic sell-out performance on arguably the world’s greatest stage at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Throughout its illustrious history, the CBOI has had the honour of performing for dignitaries, including President Michael D. Higgins, former Presidents of Ireland, King Charles III, President Obama, President Biden, and the late Queen Elizabeth II. The orchestra's impactful performances at national and international events have consistently conveyed messages of peace, reconciliation, healing, and hope, earning them standing ovations and global recognition.