Orchestra CEO retires after 19 years

CEO of the Irish Chamber Orchestra, John Kelly is retiring after 19 years at the helm.
During his tenure, the orchestra developed strong relationships with world-class soloists and conductors, commissioned some of the country’s finest new works for chamber orchestra, toured internationally from the US to China, Singapore and Australia; brought world-class performances to small communities around the country, developed innovative and effective education and outreach programmes and worked closely on projects with the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at UL.
2007 was a landmark year for the orchestra, as Government funding was secured for a €3.5 million home for the ICO, including office and rehearsal space, as well as a fully equipped recording studio. This complex has been the home of the ICO since 2008.
Mr Kelly said he enjoyed his time with the orchestra. “It has allowed me to pursue and achieve a dream – to establish an Irish orchestra that would be recognised as one of the leading chamber orchestras in Europe. Thanks to the talent and dedication of the musicians, staff, board and the Arts Council of Ireland, the ICO has become one of Ireland’s most effective cultural ambassadors.
“Sing out with Strings, our successful community engagement programme continues to bring meaningful musical experiences to children across Limerick. I’m very grateful for the experience I’ve gained and very proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
Dr Ed Walsh, founding president of UL, said he enjoyed working with Mr Kelly. “In my six years as deputy chair of the board of the ICO, one of my greatest pleasures was working with John Kelly. I’ve rarely met a man with John’s ability to see opportunities and realise them. He is able to create a compelling vision and communicate it to people across social and national boundaries and to enlist support from key stakeholders in Government, academia and the private sector.”
Gerard Keenan takes over as acting CEO from August 1. A former professional musician, he studied at the VEC College of Music in Dublin. He held management roles with the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland, the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the National Chamber Choir. In 2006, he became orchestra manager of the Irish Chamber Orchestra.