Stamp marks National Concert Hall 25th Anniversary
8 September 2006
The National Concert Hall, based in Dublin’s city centre, is rated by performing artists as one of the finest concert halls in Europe. Since its opening in 1981, the Hall has established itself as Ireland’s premier centre for the performance of live music.
The National Concert Hall building was originally part of the Coburg Gardens (now Iveagh Gardens) in which the Dublin International Exhibition was held in 1865. After the exhibition, the building was converted into examination halls for the Royal University of Ireland, and parts of the building are still in use today by University College Dublin. In 1914 the architect Rudolph Maximilian Butler redeveloped it to reflect an austere classical style very similar to that of the Customs House.
The impressive aura of the National Concert Hall gives it a real sense of occasion and presence, making it an ideal venue for Ireland’s national orchestra. With its weekly recitals, the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, in conjunction with an array of Irish and international artists and groups, enthrals concertgoers almost every night throughout the year. The main auditorium accommodates 1,200 people and the John Field Room 250, and performances are regularly sold out.
Along with a number of lunchtime concerts, the National Concert Hall promotes a programme of visiting international artists and orchestras as well as concerts of jazz, opera and contemporary and traditional Irish music, totalling around 400 events annually. In addition, its popular Education and Outreach Programmes present concerts and workshops for children and families.
The new stamp was designed by Steve Sampson while Louise Caroll of the National Concert Hall designed a special First Day Cover (€1.23). Both are available now from the main post offices; from the Philatelic Shop, GPO; by calling (01) 705 7400 or by visiting www.irishstamps.ie
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