The Pontifical Irish College in Rome marked the 100th anniversary of its home on the Caelian Hill with a special “Centenary in Song” choral celebration, bringing together talented liturgical musicians from Ireland, Europe and the United States for a week of music, worship and cultural exchange.

The highlight of the celebrations was a garden concert held on the college grounds, featuring a choir of more than 30 singers who travelled to Rome to participate in a unique programme of sacred music. The choir performed in some of the city’s most historic churches and basilicas, sharing the rich tradition of Irish liturgical music in remarkable settings including St Mary Major, San Clemente, Santa Croce in Gerusalemme and the Vatican’s San Colombano Chapel.

The musical programme was developed in collaboration with the internationally acclaimed classical music group The Priests, all alumni of the Pontifical Irish College. Special tribute was paid to Fr Eugene O’Hagan, who worked extensively on the programme and repertoire in the months leading up to the event. Unfortunately, illness prevented him from travelling to Rome. Acclaimed mezzo-soprano Nuala Murray stepped in at short notice and performed brilliantly throughout the celebrations, joining Fr David Delargy and Fr Martin O’Hagan in delivering an outstanding musical experience.

Our Dioceses were proudly represented by bass singers John Hayes and Aidan O’Flaherty from St Brendan’s Cathedral, Loughrea. They were joined by Elizabeth Keane, Director of Music at St Brendan’s Cathedral, who had the honour of conducting the international choir during the performance. Her contribution helped showcase the strength of Galway’s liturgical music tradition on an international stage.

The celebrations concluded with a gala concert attended by members of Rome’s Irish community and invited guests, including Her Excellency Frances Collins, Irish Ambassador to the Holy See, and Deputy Head of Mission Erin Swan. The evening provided a fitting musical tribute to the College’s centenary, celebrating a century of faith, friendship and cultural connection through the shared language of song.

Photography credits to Mr. Silviu Pal