Clarinet and Piano Recital: Schubert, Stanford, Brahms

Performers:

John Finucane, Clarinet

Finghin Collins, Piano

Programme:

Schubert – Drei Klavierstücke, D. 946

Joseph O’Kelly – Mazurka, Op. 48

Brahms – Clarinet Sonata in F Minor, Op. 120, No. 1

Stanford – Clarinet Sonata in F Major, Op. 129

Music in Monkstown’s Artistic Director, clarinettist John Finucane, celebrates his 70th birthday this year with a series of special performances throughout 2025 – and this Farmleigh recital is one of the highlights. On July 25th, he joins renowned pianist Finghin Collins for an unforgettable evening of clarinet and piano magic.

This lyrical and passionate programme features gems from the Romantic repertoire, including Brahms’ soulful Clarinet Sonata in F Minor, Schubert’s poignant solo piano works, and Stanford’s luminous Irish sonata. A rare treat to experience two of Ireland’s most distinguished musicians in an intimate setting.

John Finucane

John Finucane is one of Ireland’s leading clarinettists, celebrated for his virtuosic performances and long-standing contribution to Irish musical life. He served as Principal Clarinet of the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra for 25 years, and has appeared as a concerto soloist, chamber musician, and conductor throughout his career. A dedicated educator, he continues to teach at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. He is Artistic Director of the Hibernian Orchestra and founder of the chamber music festival Music in Monkstown. As a conductor, he has led the RTÉ NSO, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, and Ulster Orchestra. John’s recordings, including French Holidays and the world premiere of Grigori Frid’s Clarinet Sonatas, have earned international acclaim. In 2025, he marks his 70th birthday with a new concerto by Shaun Davey, recital appearances, and festival engagements across Ireland.

Finghin Collins

Finghin Collins is one of Ireland’s foremost pianists and musical curators, with a career spanning continents and collaborations with many of the world’s top orchestras and conductors. A former student of John O’Conor at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and Dominique Merlet in Geneva, he gained international recognition after winning first prize at the Clara Haskil Competition in 1999. In addition to an active international performance schedule, Finghin is Artistic Director of the New Ross Piano Festival and Music for Galway, and in 2023 was appointed Artistic Director of the Dublin International Piano Competition. He is known for his advocacy of new music and Irish composers, and has received numerous honours, including an honorary Doctorate in Music from the National University of Ireland. His performances are noted for their warmth, clarity, and insight.

Presented as part of the Castleknock Music Festival.

Tickets available for €20 on Eventbrite.

Doors open at 19:30.