There was great excitement and pride for Mount Anville this weekend as the Mount Anville School Orchestra made history at the Interschools Music Festival, winning the Keveney Cup for Secondary School Orchestras for the very first time.
In an additional historic milestone, on the weekend of International Womens' Day, Mount Anville also became the first all-girls school ever to win this competition a remarkable achievement and a proud moment for the entire school community.
This year’s festival was particularly special as Wesley College Dublin celebrated 50 years of the Interschools Music Festival, making Mount Anville’s first win an especially memorable part of this milestone year.
The orchestra delivered a vibrant and confident performance that impressed both the audience and adjudicator Peter Joyce, who had great praise for the ensemble’s musicality, balance, and expressive playing. Their performance of Dance of the Hours by Amilcare Ponchielli showcased the orchestra’s lively character, strong ensemble playing, and sense of fun, bringing energy and colour to this well-known orchestral work.
This success is particularly special given the commitment behind it. The orchestra rehearses every Wednesday morning at the impressive hour of 7:30am, long before the school day begins. Those early mornings clearly paid off, as the ensemble performed with confidence, precision, and real musical connection. They are led by 6th year Mia O'Connor, and were conducted by Ms. Ryan. The orchestra would also like to acknowledge Mr Lynch for his work with the group earlier in the year, and to thank the Mount Anville Music Department for their continued support and encouragement.
This victory also marks an important moment in the orchestra’s journey at the festival. When Mount Anville first entered the competition, the ensemble consisted of just eight performers. Over the years it has grown into the thriving orchestra that took to the stage this weekend, proudly representing the school and making history.
Congratulations to all of the musicians involved on this extraordinary achievement.
The entire Mount Anville community is immensely proud of you.