New Music Dublin Festival – Dublin, Ireland 2026
Overview
New Music Dublin 2026 is Ireland’s premier contemporary music festival, a collaborative celebration of innovative soundscapes, performances, and discussions, centered at the National Concert Hall in Dublin with events across the city. Organized by New Music Dublin CLG (No. 663004) in partnership with the Arts Council, RTÉ, and the National Concert Hall, the festival promotes a broad spectrum of new Irish music alongside international perspectives, featuring over 50 events including concerts, lectures, workshops, and premieres that explore experimental, electronic, classical, and cross-genre compositions.
Running annually in spring, the 2026 edition builds on 40+ years of legacy with a focus on equity, diversity, and climate-conscious practices, showcasing emerging and established artists like chamber ensembles, solo virtuosos, and multimedia creators. It’s a hub for musical evolution, fostering collaborations and audience growth for contemporary Irish compositions—ideal for adventurers seeking sonic frontiers in Dublin’s cultural heart.
Event Highlights
- Main activities and performances: World premieres and recitals of new Irish works by composers like Linda Buckley and Ian Wilson; chamber concerts by groups like Crash Ensemble; electronic and experimental sets with RTÉ involvement; talks on music’s societal role with international guests.
- Special traditions and features: Bilingual programming with international collaborations since inception; emphasis on youth and emerging artists via RIAM partnerships; environmental policy with low-impact events; board-led inclusivity via Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Action Plan.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Immersive workshops on composition and performance; pop-up installations blending music with visual arts; ties to Dublin’s scene with NCH masterclasses and Contemporary Music Centre exhibitions.
Why Attend
New Music Dublin 2026 pulses with Ireland’s sonic frontier, where a Crash Ensemble chord fractures into a Linda Buckley premiere, weaving a tapestry of innovation that echoes from NCH halls to hidden venues, igniting minds in Dublin’s drizzle-kissed dawn. The festival’s 50+ events—from electronic pulses to choral evolutions—ensure boundless discovery, making it a soul-stirring manifesto for music’s power to provoke and unite, all in the capital’s vibrant cultural crucible.
For newcomers and families, the accessible workshops and free talks demystify new music playfully, blending education with excitement in a supportive space. Amid Dublin’s Georgian ghosts and Liffey whispers, you’ll emerge attuned, with new harmonies in your head and collaborations in your contacts—proving why this beacon endures as Ireland’s call to contemporary ears.
Date & Duration
Dates: March 25 – April 1, 2026
Duration: 8 days
Venue / Location
The festival centers at the National Concert Hall for main concerts and talks, with fringe events across Dublin venues like the Contemporary Music Centre, RIAM recital halls, and pop-up spaces, offering a city-wide immersion in contemporary sound.
Google Maps address: National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin D02 N527, Ireland
Ticket Information
- Tickets are sold online via newmusicdublin.ie starting January 2026; day passes and festival bundles available; some free events.
- Admission is a mix of free and paid; main concerts paid, workshops/talks often free.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Single concert tickets from $26 USD (€25 EUR); festival pass $103 USD (€100 EUR).
- Special seating or VIP options: No VIP; accessible seating and BSL support; student discounts 20% off.
- Minimum ticket pricing: Free for select events; $26 USD for singles.
- Maximum ticket pricing: $103 USD for a festival pass.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@newmusicdublin.ie (general inquiries and bookings); applications@newmusicdublin.ie (artist applications).
- Phone: Not specified; use email or check website for updates.
- Website: https://newmusicdublin.ie (See Official Site).
- Social Media: Not specified; check site for links.
- Key Staff: John Harris (Festival Director); Jon Pearson (Festival Producer); Kerry Fitzgerald (Marketing).
- Press/Volunteers: Email info@newmusicdublin.ie for press or volunteer opportunities (roles include event support and ushering).
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English support available; company no. 663004.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Dublin Airport (DUB) 20 minutes north by taxi or bus; Cork Airport (ORK) 3 hours south by train.
- Public transport: Trains to Dublin Heuston (2.5 hours from Cork), then Luas tram to NCH (~10 minutes, $3 USD); airport buses to city center (~$10 USD).
- Driving: M50 from north or N7 from south; parking at NCH (~$20 USD/day); carpool encouraged.
- Other options: Bike shares via Dublin Bikes for city routes; walking from Connolly Station (~20 minutes); taxis/Uber ~$25 USD from DUB.
- Accessibility: NCH offers ramps and accessible seating; contact for shuttles.
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: No on-site; urban festival with city options.
- Glamping: Limited pods near Dublin Bay ~$150-200 USD/night.
- Nearby hotels: Conrad Dublin (5-minute walk, $200-300 USD/night); budget at Generator Dublin $100-150 USD.
- B&Bs and self-catering: Cozy spots like Harcourt Hotel B&B, $90-140 USD/night; apartments via Airbnb $110-170 USD.
- Other: Hostels like Avalon House ~$40-60 USD/night shared; book via visitdublin.com for deals.
Reviews
- Crash Ensemble’s premieres shattered expectations—Linda Buckley’s soundscapes were mind-bending; NMD’s intimacy amplified every innovation.
- Ian Wilson’s choral echoes in NCH hall were profound; talks on music’s societal role inspired—Dublin’s contemporary pulse felt alive and urgent.
- From RIAM workshops to RTÉ collaborations, the festival sparked sonic discoveries—emerging Irish voices shone, leaving ears enchanted.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What types of music and performances feature at New Music Dublin 2026?
New Music Dublin showcases a spectrum of contemporary Irish and international music, including world premieres of compositions by Linda Buckley and Ian Wilson, chamber works by Crash Ensemble, and electronic/experimental by Evlana and Chamber Choir Ireland. Expect 50+ events: 20+ concerts with solo virtuosos, ensembles, and orchestras; immersive installations blending music with visuals; talks on AI in composition and climate themes. Supported by Arts Council and RTÉ, it highlights emerging talents—full program at newmusicdublin.ie by January 2026.
Is the festival suitable for families and newcomers?
Yes, it's all-ages with family-friendly workshops on music creation and kid-oriented listening sessions at NCH and RIAM. Newcomers enjoy free talks and low-cost tickets ($26 USD+), with guided introductions to contemporary music. The bilingual, inclusive vibe eases entry, and city-wide venues allow pacing. Student discounts (20%) and youth programs make it accessible—email info@newmusicdublin.ie for family schedules. Ideal for sparking curiosity in Dublin's cultural scene.
What accessibility features does the festival provide?
The NCH offers step-free entry, ramps, accessible toilets, and viewing platforms; companion tickets free with proof. BSL interpreters for select events; quiet zones available. Fringe venues like Contemporary Music Centre provide wheelchair access. As a CLG with EDI policy, it's compliant—contact info@newmusicdublin.ie for tailored support like priority seating or audio descriptions. Environmental policy ensures low-impact access.
What food and drink options are available?
NCH bars and cafes serve Irish staples like soda bread and gourmet sandwiches ($10-15 USD), with vegan/gluten-free options. Event venues offer light bites and wines ($8 USD+), with free water stations. Nearby Dublin eateries like Temple Bar (5-minute walk) provide pub fare and coffee. BYO water bottles allowed; no glass in halls. Over 10 options tie into the festival's cultural theme—check newmusicdublin.ie for venue specifics.
How do I get to Dublin and navigate during the festival?
Fly into Dublin (DUB, 20 minutes north) or Cork (ORK, 3 hours south via train). Trains to Heuston (2.5 hours from Cork, $50 USD), then Luas tram to NCH (~10 minutes, $3 USD). Driving via M50/N7; NCH parking $20 USD/day. Bike shares for city hops; walking from Connolly (~20 minutes). Venues 5-15 minutes apart; maps via app. Spring weather? Layers for Dublin chills—email info@newmusicdublin.ie for accessibility shuttles.
