IMRO Chats

IMRO Chats is a monthly podcast series exploring the topics, challenges and opportunities shaping Ireland’s music industry, hosted by Ann-Marie Kelly.
This month, we turn the spotlight on the London Irish Centre in Camden, a longstanding hub for the Irish community that has evolved into an important platform for Irish artists seeking to connect with audiences, collaborators and industry professionals in London.
Featuring insights from Hannah Pender, Director of Programming and Events at the London Irish Centre, Faye O'Rourke of Soda Blonde and Joe Hearns of Scustin.
The discussion explores the Centre's role in supporting emerging artists, fostering creative connections and building a sense of community, while also highlighting opportunities for Irish music creators to perform, collaborate and develop their careers in London.

IMRO Chats is a monthly podcast series exploring the topics, challenges and opportunities shaping Ireland’s music industry, hosted by Anne-Marie Kelly.
Our next episode, Festivals, looks at the many ways music festivals bring communities together, from the tradition and competition of the Fleadh to the evolving world of family-focused festival experiences.
Featuring insights from PJ Phelan of Comhaltas Portlaoise, Colm Phelan and Áine McGeeney of Goitse, and Kaleidoscope Festival Director Fiona McGinn, the discussion explores the impact festivals can have on towns, families and artists, while reflecting on how live music creates connection, carries tradition across generations and brings a sense of home to audiences near and far.

IMRO Chats is a monthly podcast series exploring the topics, challenges and opportunities shaping Ireland’s music industry, hosted by Anne Marie Kelly.
Our next episode, Music Tourism, looks at the role music plays in shaping how people experience Ireland, from impromptu pub sessions and grassroots venues to festivals, cultural spaces and the hospitality sector.
Featuring insights from Other Voices founder Philip King, Tomás Mulligan of The Cobblestone and Irish Independent Travel Editor Pól Ó Conghaile, the discussion explores authenticity, community and the value of live music, while reflecting on how Ireland can celebrate its musical heritage without losing the magic that makes it so special.

IMRO Chats is a monthly podcast series exploring the topics, challenges and opportunities shaping Ireland’s music industry. 
 
As the Ivor Novello Awards take place this month, our next episode, The Ivors Academy, explores what the Academy’s presence in Ireland means for songwriters and composers, and the role it can play in supporting, protecting and empowering music creators. 
 
Featuring insights from Ivors CEO Roberto Neri, Ivors Head of Policy for Ireland Catherine Martin and Chair of the Ivors All Ireland Council Iain Archer, the discussion highlights advocacy, membership and creative support, while also reflecting on recognition, community and the opportunities available to Irish music creators.

IMRO Chats is a monthly podcast series exploring the topics, challenges and opportunities shaping Ireland’s music industry.
Following the IMRO Live Music Awards this month, our next episode, Music Venues, concentrates on small and medium-sized venues, exploring how these spaces support artists, foster audiences and sustain live performance across Ireland. 
Featuring insights from venue operators and artists including Robbie Campion and Davey Furey of Bob’s Hideout in Bob’s Bar, Durrow, Co. Laois, Stephen Butler from The Set Theatre in Langton’s Hotel, Kilkenny, and musician and performer Ollie Cole, the discussion highlights the atmosphere, challenges and opportunities these venues create. This episode also captures the build-up to an exciting performance from Damien Dempsey, during rehearsals at The Set Theatre.