Festival brings attention, cultural energy and a tourism boost to Tipperary

Clonmel will take centre stage in Ireland’s music calendar this March as the ninth edition of Finding a Voice returns from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 March 2026, transforming the town into a hub of music, creativity, and cultural exchange.

Founded in 2017 by Clonmel sisters Roisin and Cliona Maher, and now firmly established as a nationally respected festival, Finding a Voice is dedicated to celebrating music by women composers past and present for the weekend of International Women’s Day.

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Over four days, Clonmel will host concerts and performances, talks, workshops and premieres by some of Ireland’s most outstanding musicians and international guests, drawing audiences and visitors into the town from across the country.

Events will take place in some of Clonmel’s most distinctive and much-loved venues, including Old St Mary’s Church, the Main Guard, Clonmel Library, Raheen House and Bodega 1860, ensuring that the festival is woven directly into the fabric of the town.

From lunchtime concerts and free public talks to evening headline performances, the programme invites both locals and visitors to experience Clonmel as a vibrant cultural destination.

Festival Producer and co-founder Cliona Maher notes that the event has become an important driver of cultural tourism for the area.

“Finding a Voice brings artists, audiences and industry professionals into Clonmel at a traditionally quieter time of year.
Visitors stay locally, eat locally, and explore the town, while residents have access to world-class performances on their doorstep,” said Cliona.

This year’s programme includes concerts ranging from medieval vocal music to contemporary chamber works and jazz, alongside book talks and professional development workshops.

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A particular highlight is the world premiere of a new work inspired by Clonmel’s own historic Code Duello, further anchoring the festival in the town’s unique heritage.

More local involvement is through Marian Ingoldsby acting as mentor in the Emerging Composer Competition organised in partnership with the Contemporary Music Centre, and in a Flow Original Music showcase event, featuring Jessica Brett, Kate Twohig and Zrazy, programmed in partnership with Clonmelody.

Finding a Voice is made possible through strong local and national support. The festival receives principal funding from The Arts Council, with additional support from Tipperary County Council. Local and national partners including RTÉ Supporting the Arts and IMRO, with corporate sponsors Camida and Boston Scientific also playing a key role in ensuring the festival’s continued success.

Full programme details and tickets are available at www.findingavoice.ie