Rose, Sculpture and World-Renowned Composer Mark Charles Wood Centenary in Armagh
The Charles Wood Centenary Festival of Music was officially launched earlier this week at the Robinson Library, unveiling a major programme with a series of lasting tributes to one of Armagh’s most celebrated musical sons as part of its landmark centenary year.
Marking 100 years since the death of renowned composer Charles Wood, the 2026 Festival will feature the unveiling of the first-ever sculpted bust of Wood by Festival Patron Sir John Rutter during the festival, created by Naomi Sander of Studio Sander and Sander, who led on the sculpture of Mary Ann McCracken, unveiled in the grounds of Belfast City Hall in 2024.
This will follow on from the dedication of 10 specially commissioned Charles Wood rose bushes planted in the grounds of St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral at the launch.
The unique commemorations form the centrepiece of an expanded festival programme taking place from 16–23 August, bringing together leading musicians, composers, choirs and audiences from across the UK, Ireland and beyond to celebrate Wood’s enduring influence on choral music worldwide.
The centenary festival has been described as a celebration of Charles Wood’s “living legacy”, recognising not only his historic contribution to music but the continuing impact of his work on generations of singers, composers and choirs worldwide.
Richard Yarr, Chair of the Festival Board, said: “This centenary year offers a unique opportunity to honour Charles Wood in ways that will leave a lasting legacy for Armagh and for future generations.
“The planned unveiling of the first-ever sculpted bust of Charles Wood by Sir John Rutter during the festival, together with this evening's dedication of specially commissioned roses in his honour, are fitting tributes to a composer whose influence continues to be felt across the choral world.
“However, this festival is not simply about looking back. Through new commissions, performances, education programmes, community events and international collaboration, we are celebrating a living musical legacy that continues to inspire singers, audiences and composers today.
“We are grateful to our sponsors, including the Arts Council for Northern Ireland, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and the Esme Mitchell Trust, for their continued support.”
Special Centenary Highlights
Marking 100 years since Charles Wood’s death, this year’s festival includes a number of significant commemorative events:
The unveiling of the first-ever bust of Charles Wood by an internationally renowned sculptor, presented by Festival Patron Sir John Rutter
The dedication of a specially commissioned Charles Wood rose, with ten orange rose bushes planted beside St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in recognition of Wood’s Armagh roots
The NI premiere of a choral work 'Bird Songs' by Sir John Rutter, conducted by the composer himself
A new composition for Girls’ Choir by Bob Chilcott, Composer in Association
The Northern Ireland launch of Professor Jeremy Dibble’s new Charles Wood biography, accompanied by a public lecture
A special Alumni Gala Concert
A Gala Dinner celebrating the centenary year
Other Festival Highlights
Audiences can look forward to a rich and varied programme, including:
Charles Wood Singers and Girls’ Choir services and concerts
Opening Concert with guest choir and organist
Bach at Twilight concert
Northern Ireland International Organ Competition (NIIOC) competitions and workshops
Award Winners Concert
Composer Competition, judged by Sir John Rutter
Care home visits and community outreach
Community Day and Big Sing on the Mall in Armagh City
BBC recordings and broadcasts
The Charles Wood Festival of Music continues to position Armagh as a leading centre for choral excellence, welcoming performers and audiences from across the UK, Ireland, and beyond for this special commemorative year.
Full programme and tickets available at: www.charleswoodfestival.com