Madam, – Your readers will be aware of the outstanding international reputation of the Vanbrugh quartet, for the excellence and beauty of its playing and the huge commitment to training young Irish players.
In hosting the West Cork Chamber Music Festival, the quartet attracts a stellar cast of Irish and international artists and valuable visitor euros.
Most remarkable, however, is the welcome given and the affection displayed in the towns and villages around Ireland.
Communities really do prepare for concerts, rallying round and organising successful and popular events – I recall a very special evening on Sherkin Island last year.
There seems to be a real sense of ownership here and immense pride in this uniquely Irish phenomenon. – Yours, etc,