The Queensbury High School Madrigal Singers traveled to Ireland during winter break, touring three cities and performing along the way. The 22 a cappella singers traveled to Galway, Killarney and Dublin during the eight-day trip.
In Galway, the Madrigals participated in a cultural exchange in which they visited a local high school and performed for students. After the performance, the students all gathered together to learn traditional Irish dances and spend some time together.
On the way to Killarney, the Madrigals performed at St. Peter & Paul’s Church in Bruff, where they heard a local choir perform Irish songs and play traditional instruments.
Their final performance was in Dublin on New Year’s Day at Christ Church Cathedral, one of Ireland’s most historic buildings.
“The beautiful church was a fantastic setting for the concert, and the acoustics added to the richness of the Madrigals' singing,” said director Matthew Gaulin. “The three performances were a big success and a major highlight of the trip.”
Culturally, the Madrigals were able to experience the beautiful Irish landscape and several famous locations including: Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle, where many of the student-musicians climbed the castle tower to kiss the Blarney Stone. The Madrigals dined on traditional Irish food at dinner each evening.
The students spent New Year's Eve with dinner and a show at the famous Taylors Three Rock, where they enjoyed an evening of traditional Irish song and dance. The Madrigals were also able to perform for everyone in the restaurant.
“Overall it was a great trip,” Gaulin said. “The students were able to come together as a group and strengthen their friendships. As the tour guide for the group told the Madrigals before they left, ‘Traveling creates memories that they will have for a lifetime,’ and this is one trip that they will never forget.”