Beth McNinch is an acclaimed Irish violist and artistic director, known for her significant contributions to the world of classical and contemporary music. With a career that spans orchestral, chamber, and interdisciplinary work, Beth has established herself as a versatile and innovative artist, committed to musical excellence and creative exploration.
Beth’s musical journey began in London, where she studied viola at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal Academy of Music. Her abilities quickly earned recognition, leading to performances with some of the UK’s leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. As a principal violist, Beth appeared with the Irish National Opera, Wexford Festival Opera Orchestra, English National Ballet, Ulster Symphony Orchestra, and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland.
Her deep understanding of programming and performance has made Beth a sought-after artistic director. As the founder and driving force behind Musici Ireland, a celebrated chamber ensemble, she has developed a reputation for curating performances that blend beloved classical works with lesser-known pieces, creating fresh and engaging experiences for audiences. Under her leadership, Musici Ireland has garnered international acclaim for its innovative approach to chamber music and its focus on socially relevant and interdisciplinary projects.
Throughout her career, Beth has been drawn to collaboration and experimentation, working with artists from diverse disciplines. Her passion for blending music with other art forms has led to numerous cross-genre projects, where she seamlessly integrates music with dance, theatre, and visual arts. This interdisciplinary approach has led to bold, thought-provoking performances that challenge the boundaries of traditional concert experiences, resulting in invitations to deliver workshops, masterclasses, and lectures on the subject.
In addition to her work with Musici Ireland, Beth is a dedicated chamber musician, frequently collaborating with renowned ensembles and musicians. Her enthusiasm for exploring fresh ideas and creative approaches in performance has earned her respect and recognition within the broader music community, both in Ireland and internationally.