All About Cork: Church choir concert raises funds for Ethiopia Deaf Project

Wed, 22 May, 2024 - 07:00

Darragh Bermingham

Church choir concert raises crucial funds for the Ethiopia Deaf Project

The Ethiopia Deaf Project, a Togher-based volunteer group dedicated to supporting deaf children in the African country, hosted a star-studded concert in Cork city last weekend to raise funds for its vital work.

The Holy Trinity Church on Father Mathew Quay was packed on Saturday night for the concert, which featured the White Horse Gospel Choir and their guest performers U.M.A.N and Áine Whelan.

Thais Riquelme and Leon Trifunic, city centre, at the Ethiopia Deaf Project concert at the Holy Trinity Church on Fr Mathew Quay.

A spokesperson for the EDP described the performances as “inspiring”.

“The White Horse Gospel Choir started the evening with a lively and harmonious mix of gospel and popular songs,” she said.

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“Both Áine Whelan and U.M.A.N received enthusiastic responses for their individual and joint performances, culminating in a group rendition of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’.

Liz and Donal O’Callaghan from Rochestown, at the concert.

This song was also performed in sign language, highlighting the event’s cause of supporting the deaf children at the Ambo Deaf School in Ethiopia.”

The EDP supports the running of the Ambo Deaf School, where 100 children are presently benefiting from the opportunity to go to school.

Anne and Amy Twomey from Tower, enjoying the Ethiopia Deaf Project concert.

The EDP was instrumental in setting up the Ambo Deaf School and is committed to supporting deaf children trapped in such isolation to attend school and experience the joy of inclusion and learning.

“The audience was deeply moved by EDP’s presentation on the challenges faced by deaf children in Ethiopia, who grow up without a way to communicate or even know they have a name,” the spokesperson added.

Marjorie and Ann Brickley from Wilton and Bandon, at the concert.

“The event highlighted the life-changing impact of the school, which gives these children a voice and a chance at a fuller life.

“U.M.A.N performed a very touching and catchy song he wrote while reflecting on the lives of the deaf children in Ambo called ‘Humming My Own Song’, which had the effect of moving some of the audience to tears.

Sinead and Arthur Milward from Fermoy, at the concert.

“The concert was a wonderful mix of joy, music, and empathy. The energy in the venue was overwhelmingly positive, leaving every attendee feeling inspired, satisfied, and heading home happy.”

For more information on the EDP and the work these volunteers do, email info@edp-ambo.com or check out www.edp-ambo.com.

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