Bill Whelan: Orchestral Works

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Celtic music with Bill Whelan's "Orchestral Works," a captivating album released in 2018. This collection showcases the brilliance of Irish composer and musician Bill Whelan, who is renowned for his iconic composition for the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest interval. The album is a symphonic journey through Whelan's most celebrated pieces, performed by the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of David Brophy.

Spanning a total of 17 tracks and over an hour and a half of music, the album is a testament to Whelan's ability to blend traditional Irish melodies with orchestral arrangements. The centerpiece of the album is the "Riverdance: A Symphonic Suite," a series of eleven tracks that encapsulate the energy and spirit of the famous show. From the ethereal "Cloudsong" to the lively "Slip into Spring" and the dramatic "Firedance," each piece is a masterclass in orchestral storytelling.

The album also features the "Linen and Lace" suite, a trio of tracks that pay homage to the cities of Belfast and Limerick, and the "Inishlacken" suite, which evokes the serene beauty of the Irish coastline. Whether you're a fan of Celtic music or simply appreciate the power of a full orchestra, "Orchestral Works" is a must-listen. So, sit back, relax, and let the music of Bill Whelan transport you to the heart of Ireland.