The Ed Sheeran Foundation will formally launch its first cross‑border initiative in Belfast as part of this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, organisers have confirmed. The scheme, titled North South Sounds 2026, is a six‑month programme bringing together young musicians from Belfast and Cork through songwriting, performance and community activity.
Launch and early performances
The project will be unveiled at Belfast City Hall on 3 August, where a group of 50 young participants will premiere material developed during preparatory workshops before the Fleadh itself. The performances are billed as blending traditional Irish and folk elements with contemporary styles including hip‑hop, pop and rock.
Partners and local delivery
Delivery in Northern Ireland will be led by the Oh Yeah Music Centre, working alongside Music Generation Cork City and other local providers, including Creative Tradition and The Kabin Studio. Organisers say the programme aims to reach young people who may have limited access to formal music tuition, providing opportunities in songwriting, studio work and live performance.
“Every child should have the opportunity to learn and take part in music, and we’re continuing our work to help make that a reality,” said Ed Sheeran, as the foundation expands its activity across the island.
- Launch date: 3 August (Belfast City Hall)
- Duration: Six months, continuing until December
- Core participants at launch: 50 young people
- Planned wider involvement: a further c.100 participants via workshops, gigs and summer camps
Scope and community aims
North South Sounds 2026 is presented as both a cultural exchange and a youth development programme. In addition to workshops and recordings, organisers expect to run youth‑led gigs and non‑residential summer camps later in the year. They describe the initiative as celebrating local musical heritage while encouraging inclusion and self‑expression among participants.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project name | North South Sounds 2026 |
| Main partners | Ed Sheeran Foundation, Oh Yeah Music Centre, Music Generation Cork City |
| Launch | 3 August, Belfast City Hall |
| Core launch participants | 50 young people |
| Programme length | Six months (to December) |
For Belfast, the project represents another high‑profile cultural event during the Fleadh season and an influx of resources for local music education. It also strengthens links between Northern Ireland and the south through arts activity at a time when cross‑border cultural cooperation remains a priority for many community groups.
Information on public performances and how other young people can take part is expected from the participating organisations in the coming weeks. Those involved say the focus will remain on accessibility and offering sustained creative opportunities rather than one‑off appearances.
