Events

The Totally Made-Up Orchestra invites people of all ages and abilities to experience the transformative power of orchestral music through collaboration and creativity. Led by acclaimed composer Colm O’Hara, this unique project brings together students and adults from across Roscommon to form a one‑off community orchestra that creates and performs brand-new music in a single day.

On August 8, up to 35 participants will take part in a three‑hour workshop where they will collectively compose adventurous new music, sharing ideas and shaping the work together. No previous orchestral experience is required – collaboration and co‑creation are at the heart of the project.

That afternoon, the newly formed orchestra will perform these original community compositions in a free public concert at Ballaghadereen Arts Festival, making orchestral music accessible, relevant and welcoming to all. The project is aimed especially at those who may not usually attend arts events, including young people, minorities, asylum seekers and adults new to orchestral music.

The Totally Made-Up Orchestra is about opening doors, amplifying community voices, and reimagining what an orchestra can be.