Irish classical duo, soprano Catrina Scullion and pianist Catriona McElhinney-Grimes are delighted to present “Songs from the New World” which is a celebration of music and song from America, including favourites by Barber, Soundheim and Gershwin (to name a few). Acclaimed recitalists; in addition to performing at concerts and events all over Ireland, the duo has also presented a solo recital series in the NCH over the last few years. One of these recitals, in January 2019, featured the world premiere of a song cycle by former NSO conductor Colman Pearce. Pearce was inspired to write his “Songs of joy, sorrow and malice” (based on the poetry of William Blake) after hearing the duo in their sold out performance of “Dreamscapes” in the NCH in 2017. In 2019 the duo released their album Urú to critical acclaim. Urú (eclipse) is a celebration of the duo’s musical and family heritage. A collaboration between their classical training and Irish roots. Catriona is from Donegal and Catrina from Ballymena, Co Antrim. Both sought after soloists in their own right, the duo formed after collaborating together in a concert performance of music from Puccini operas. After this a firm musical partnership (and friendship was formed). They both hold Masters degrees in music performance from the Conservatoire of Music (TU Dublin). Plans for 2024 include recording a sacred music album and a number of recitals throughout Ireland.