Maynooth University Music Department Lunchtime Concert Series - Sadhbh O'Sullivan, In Cloak & Womb

Thursday, October 17, 2024 - 13:00 to 14:00
Riverstown Hall, South Campus

Sadhbh O'Sullivan, Clara Rose, and Sharon Murphy will perform "In Cloak & Womb", a song cycle for three female voices composed by Sadhbh O'Sullivan (Sive). Taking inspiration from the legacy of Brigid the saint, the goddess and the woman, the songs explore how her echo might resonate in the world today, particularly in relation to themes of climate change and social justice.

Sive is a songwriter and musician dubbed 'one of the most inspiring and exciting artists of our time' by Female First UK. Since releasing her album 'The Roaring Girl' in 2017 she has earned her stripes as a live act and has toured extensively across Ireland and beyond, sharing stages with the likes of Gemma Hayes, Lisa Hannigan, John Spillane, Kila and Christy Moore along the way. In 2018, Sive began working with VETA Records and together they released 'We Begin in Darkness', an album that was described as 'hugely impressive' by Paul McLoone on RTE Arena. 2024 has been a busy year for Sive, with the release of a new song cycle called In Cloak & Womb which is set for its third nationwide tour in October. In May she released If I Must Die, a musical setting of the beloved poem by Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, in aid of Doctors Without Borders Gaza Emergency Regional Fund.

Clara Rose is a vocalist, songwriter, music therapist and performer. Her unique vocal style can go from a soulful folk whisper to belting blues with some operatic quivers added for good measure. As an original recording artist, Clara Rose has released three albums and two EPs to critical acclaim, including her latest release 'Live, LIVE, Love' (live album, 2021). Clara has performed nationally and in Europe both independently and on tour with her band, The Clara Rose Band. 'Live, LIVE, Love' album reviewed in Blues Blast Magazine: "Clara Rose delivers on all fronts...her vibe is one part whiskey, one part roses and one part Gaelic grit."

Singer-songwriter Sharon Murphy began her career in the late 90’s, working for many years in the pop music industry as a songwriter and backing vocalist with the UK production team Biffco. During this time, she sang on and contributed to hits by artists such as Gabrielle, Kylie and Will Young, and also recorded her first album ‘Falling Backwards’. In 2009, she took the opportunity to develop her musicianship further, studying for a BMus Degree in Maynooth University, taking vocal tuition from renowned soprano Virginia Kerr and singing with the Maynooth University Chamber Choir. The last five years have seen Sharon return to performing and recording, with a song from her most recently released EP ‘Not the Sea’ getting airplay on Lyric FM’s Marty in the Morning. She is currently drawing upon her many influences (indie, folk, jazz, classical) while she works on material for her second album.