European medical students' orchestra and choir to perform in Birr in aid of Offaly Hospice

The European Medical Students' Orchestra and Choir (EMSOC) is set to perform at St Brendan's R.C. Church (Wilmer Road) Birr, tonight, Tuesday, August 18, for a special charity concert in aid of Offaly Hospice.

For more than three decades, EMSOC has brought together medical students, young doctors, and healthcare professionals from across Europe through a shared passion for music.

Each year, participants gather in a different host country for an intensive ten-day programme of rehearsals, culminating in a series of charity performances.

As well as performing together, participants have the opportunity to meet fellow medical students and young healthcare professionals from across Europe, sharing cultures, forming friendships, and creating connections through music.

In 2026, EMSOC is proud to be hosted in Ireland by a team of medical students and young healthcare professionals.

The Birr concert forms part of a three-concert Irish tour, with performances also taking place in Galway Cathedral on Wednesday, August 19, in aid of Galway Hospice, and at The Helix, Dublin, on Friday, August 21, in aid of Friends of St Luke's. Every ticket sold will help support these vital charities.

EMSOC is conducted by Dr. Ciarán Crilly & Dr. Róisín Blunnie. Concert Master: Dr. Olivia Howdle

The Birr concert is supported by Offaly County Council, the JVM Trench Will Trust and Birr Festival of Music.

Tickets are priced at €20 + booking fee.