Irish musicians of all genres, ages and abilities are invited to join the love:live music movement by taking up their respective instruments and playing gigs on International Music Day, which will take place on the Summer Solstice, June 21st. The idea behind the love:live music – now in its third year – is for musicians in 120 countries to co-ordinate free gigs to share the pleasure of live music with the public.

The Irish division of the movement is funded by the Department of Arts, Heritage and The Gaeltacht and is being co-ordinated by Music Network and Lyric FM.

Last year, more than 160 performances by buskers, flash mobs, rock musicians, choirs and solo recitalists took place in 24 counties, from the National Chamber Choir at Dublin’s Helix, to the RTÉ Concert Orchestra collaborating with a primary school, and it is hoped that there is enough interest in 2012 to generate a similarly successful event.

"Ireland is known throughout the world for its incredible musicians and unrivalled musical talent," says project manager Jody Ackland. "We want to celebrate this at home and encourage everyone to enjoy Irish music at love:live music." lovelivemusic.ie