Cork choral festival kicks off on a high note

They were singing on the banks of the Lee last night as Cork’s longest-running festival kicked off its diamond jubilee event on a high note.

Organisers of the 60th annual Cork International Choral Festival said almost 5,000 participants — the largest number it has ever had — will take part in a series of competitive and non-competitive concerts, workshops and free outdoor performances right across the bank holiday weekend, bringing the city to life through song.

Publicans, restaurateurs and hoteliers are also preparing for a bumper weekend, with thousands expected.