About
The Maynooth University Chamber Choir, founded in 1986 by Dr. John O’Keeffe, is a select ensemble of student and graduate singers representing the highest level of choral artistry at Maynooth University. Over the years, the choir has gained a reputation for its innovative programming, high performance standards, and commitment to both classical and contemporary choral repertoire.
Under the direction of Dr. Michael T. Dawson the choir made history in July 2015 when it became the first Irish choir and Michael the youngest director - to lift the coveted Pavarotti Trophy as ‘Choir of the World’ at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales. This victory remains one of the most significant moments in Irish choral history.
In October 2015, the Maynooth University Chamber Choir then comprised of 36 students and recent alumni - launched Lorica, its inaugural CD. The album showcases a wide variety of choral works, including new compositions by Maynooth University’s Martin O’Leary and former student Adam Cullen, highlighting the choir’s dedication to promoting new Irish music.
Another landmark in the choir’s journey came in 2014 at Canta en Primavera in Malaga, Spain. There, the ensemble was awarded two Gold Diplomas by the international jury of Interkultur in the categories ‘Youth Choirs of Mixed Voices’ and ‘Sacred Choir Music.’ This competition featured 16 choirs from 12 countries, including Germany, the USA, Russia, Sweden, and Venezuela.
Today, the Maynooth University Chamber Choir continues to perform regularly in Ireland and internationally, inspiring audiences and nurturing the next generation of choral musicians.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Maynooth University Chamber Choir & Codetta Chamber Choir
€20.00
Date: 23 May 2025
Time: 20:00 (Doors open19:00)
Venue: THE LARK - Balbriggan, Dublin
FIND TICKETS HERE: Codetta x Maynooth University Tickets
Codetta is an internationally acclaimed chamber choir based in Derry, Northern Ireland celebrating its 25th anniversary year. Founded in 2000 by conductor Dónal Doherty, the choir has established a reputation for choral excellence, winning numerous awards, including the Fleischmann Trophy at the Cork International Choral Festival in 2017.
The choir aims to provide opportunities for singers in Derry City and the surrounding area to perform a variety of repertoire. Codetta's commitment to fostering musical talent extends to its junior and youth choirs, launched in 2017, which nurture young singers in the region.
Dónal Doherty, who also serves as the artistic director of the City of Derry International Choir Festival, was awarded an honorary MBE in 2022 for his services to music in Northern Ireland.
The Maynooth University Chamber Choir is a distinguished ensemble based at Maynooth University (National University of Ireland). Under the artistic direction of Dr. Michael T. Dawson, the choir has achieved significant acclaim, notably winning the prestigious "Choir of the World" title at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in 2015, Gold Diplomas at International festivals in Europe and has toured internationally to the U.S, China and Europe.
Comprised of talented students from across Departments, the choir is known for its dynamic repertoire and high-caliber performances.
The choir continues to be a vibrant part of Maynooth University's musical life, offering students experiential learning opportunities and contributing to the university's cultural outreach. The choir is currently working on its newest album which it plans to release in 2026.
