Alumnus James May has won the 2019 , an Irish-based prize that recognizesÌýtalented composers and aims to provideÌýIrish choirs with fresh, authentic material.
A 2018 School of Music graduate, May was UofL’s , an award given to just 12 Americans each year for Ireland postgraduate study. May is now working on a graduate degree in experimental sound practiceÌýat Ireland’s University College, Cork.
May’s winning composition,Ìýstreet after street alike,Ìýwill premiere May 3 atÌýSt. Fin Barre’s Cathedral in Cork and performed by Chamber Choir Ireland.
“I’m thrilled to have been selected as the winner of the Sean Ó’Riada competition. I’ve been so impressed and humbled by the vibrant music and sonic art scene in Cork, all-embracing in its desire and support for exciting creativity,” said May as part of an interview that appeared on Cork International Choral Festival’s website. “I’ve already had so many wonderful music–making experiences here, and the opportunity to contribute my part to this community through the Cork International Choral Festival is an absolute dream.”
A native of Pittsburgh, May came to UofL on theÌýÌýafter graduating from The College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, with degrees in music composition and English.
