Last night (19TH May, 2015), in what was a unique collaboration, Randox and Camerata Ireland took part in a very special musical event, in one of the most beautiful and prestigious addresses in Paris. Four musicians selected by Artistic Director, world renowned pianist Barry Douglas, performed at the British Ambassador’s Residence, also known as the Hôtel de Charost; the palatial edifice, bought by the Duke of Wellington in 1814. Camerata Ireland is an all-Ireland organisation, supported by joint patrons; Her Majesty the Queen and President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins. As such, it was fitting that the event was hosted by both the British Ambassador to France, Sir Peter Ricketts and Irish Ambassador to France, Geraldine Byrne Nason.

150 specially invited guests, including some of France’s leading scientists and clinicians attended the concert, which is part of a series of events, marking the 15th anniversary season of Camerata Ireland. Founded in 1999, by Tchaikovsky Gold Medal winner, Barry Douglas, Camerata Ireland brings together the finest musicians from Ireland – North and South; to present a new and positive image of Ireland and to create a distinctive sound that comes from the orchestra members’ shared musical heritage. As Global Sponsor, Randox has supported Camerata Ireland’s vision for almost a decade.

Speaking after last night’s recital Barry Douglas, Artistic Director said:

“We are all immensely proud of the work of our all-island orchestra, Camerata Ireland over the past 15 years. We feel very privileged to enjoy the joint patronage of HM the Queen and President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins. We are honoured to have the support of the British and Irish Ambassadors in Paris, and we thank them for their warm welcome at this event. We also want to thank our wonderful Global Sponsor, Randox, who have made our tours and work with young musicians possible through their generous support”.

Sir Peter Ricketts, British Ambassador to France said:

“This was an evening which reflected all the warmth in the relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland. I am delighted that it brought together such a wide range of people to enjoy the magic of Camerata’s music and thanks to Randox’s generosity.”

Geraldine Byrne Nason, Irish Ambassador to France said:

“I was delighted to join the British Ambassador to co-host this evening’s concert to celebrate the fifteenth birthday of Camerata Ireland. It is fitting that we jointly celebrate with friends from across the island of Ireland and with our neighbours. With sincere appreciation for Camerata’s Global Sponsor, Randox”.

As well as highlighting musical talent, the event was a platform for Randox to promote its ground-breaking diagnostic tests and technology, allowing its experts to network with some of France’s pre-eminent pathologists, cardiologists and life-scientists, as Mark Campbell, Head of External Affairs at Randox explained:

“As Global Sponsor of Camerata Ireland Randox are delighted to have enjoyed a wonderful event in such a magnificent setting, graciously hosted by both the British and Irish Ambassadors. Randox’s partnership with Barry Douglas and Camerata Ireland goes back for over a decade and has allowed us to support the Arts and build and strengthen relationships in key markets across the globe. Camerata Ireland is recognised as one of this Island’s chief cultural assets, showcasing the very best of what Ireland, North and South, has to offer”.