SoundSport®, a rapidly growing series of worldwide competitive and exhibition music ensemble performance opportunities produced by U.S.-based Drum Corps International is pleased to announce SoundSport Athlone Ireland presented by Sean’s and the Left Bank, the emerald isle’s first officially-sanctioned SoundSport® event.

The instrumental music talent showcase will feature performances by a variety of music ensembles from all over Ireland including the hometown Ravens Drum & Bugle Corps on Friday March 20th at Athlone’s historic castle along the banks of the River Shannon.

“We couldn’t ask for a more spectacular venue to host a SoundSport event,” said DCI Senior Director of Business Development John DeNovi. “Athlone Castle will act as a dramatic backdrop for the performers and audience alike.”

The event is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. and will feature the SoundSport competition and conclude with an officially-sanctioned DrumLine Battle between the Athlone Ravens and The Rhythm Corporation from Dublin.

Representatives from Drum Corps International, including DCI executive director and CEO Dan Acheson, will travel from the United States to judge this inaugural event.

Businesses in Athlone’s Left Bank area will offer food, drinks and entertainment to create an exciting festival atmosphere ideal for the entire family.

“Sean’s is proud to be a founding partner in DCI’s SoundSport in Ireland,” said Timmy Donovan, proprietor of Sean’s. “As Ireland’s oldest pub, we’re honored to partner with SoundSport for Ireland’s newest music competition series. We believe it will make a significant impact for Athlone and the entire nation.”

“We’re looking forward to an exciting night of entertainment,” said Colm Bolger, the organizer of SoundSport Athlone Ireland. “This event will kick-off a series of SoundSport events in Ireland that will bring together a wide variety of Irish performing arts groups in a way that’s never been done before. We’re very excited to be part of the growth SoundSport is experiencing worldwide.”

SoundSport events showcase ensembles of any instrumentation, age and skill level, spotlighting their unique talents and creativity in up-close performance settings. Groups interested in performing in the event are encouraged to register by contacting colm.athloneravens@gmail.com. Event specific information will be listed on the SoundSport event schedule page and DrumLine Battle Event page as it becomes available.