High Hopes choir to perform in Christchurch Cathedral this weekend 

A Cork institution is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary this weekend with a special performance alongside volunteers from across the country in Dublin’s Christchurch Cathedral.

This Sunday, the Cork and Dublin branches of the High Hopes Choir will come together to mark the first decade of its work.

Founded in 2014 by former RTÉ Concert Orchestra principal conductor David Brophy, the High Hopes Choir consists of people whose lives have been touched by homelessness.

Caitríona Twomey, volunteer co-ordinator with Cork Penny Dinners, said the choir’s work in Cork had been made possible through the “tireless efforts” of musical directors Carmel Whelan and Fabrice Fortune.

“The High Hopes Choir has played an integral role in shedding light on the realities of homelessness,” she said.

“With homelessness on the rise, it’s easy for statistics to mask the deeply personal stories of those affected.

“However, under the guidance of their coordinators and musical directors, the choirs have used music as a powerful tool to share those stories and break down societal barriers.”

Ms Twomey said the anniversary concert at Christchurch Cathedral would be a testament to the power of collective action, empathy, and resilience.

“As our voices rise together on October 20, the message we share will resonate far beyond the walls of the cathedral.

“It will be a call to continue advocating for those affected by homelessness, mental health struggles, addiction, and poverty. A reminder that, when we come together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of individuals and families across the nation.”