Irish musician and educator, Emily Magner Hurley, is on a mission to raise awareness for stuttering and mental health with her upcoming album, An Mhaighdean Mhara (The Maiden of the Sea). Scheduled for release on 16/10/23, this collection of original and traditional Irish folk songs is sure to captivate fans of Irish Classical music.
With a unique blend of acapella, jazz fusion, and classical styles, An Mhaighdean Mhara showcases Emily’s intricate harmonies and motifs. The album’s sound focuses on the spiritual, mindful, and meditative, creating a soothing and uplifting experience for listeners. Emily’s passion for raising awareness around stuttering and mental health stems from her work as a secondary school teacher. She has seen first-hand the positive effects that music can have on struggling students.
Her previous efforts with the Stuttering Awareness Mental Wellbeing Ireland campaign have gained recognition from the US Embassy, where they were invited to attend the prestigious July 4th event. Their music has even been played at the White House. The album is dedicated to deputy White House Chief of Staff Jen O’Malley-Dillon, a fierce supporter of the campaign. A graduate of University College Cork with a master’s in composition and training from renowned soprano, Majella Cullagh, Emily composed all her pieces on a 1970s Petrof Baby Grand gifted to her by her husband. This piano has been played by notable pianists John O’Conner and Charles Lynch. Emily’s debut album, Airs & Grace, released in 2020, received glowing reviews from publications such as the Southern Star, Lyric FM, and The Arts House. It also helped many fans find solace during a difficult year. With An Mhaighdean Mhara, Emily hopes to continue this mission of using music to comfort and heal.
The album will be available on all platforms on 16/10/23 and is a must-listen for fans of Anúna, Enya, and Sarah Brightman. Avant Music Port from Dublin describes the album as “lovely, evocative music” with “lots of heart and flair.” Emily’s unique twist on the traditional style of Sean Nós singing is sure to captivate and delight listeners. An Mhaighdean Mhara is not just a beautiful collection of songs; it is also a powerful message of awareness and empathy. Emily Magner Hurley’s dedication to raising awareness for stuttering and mental health through music is a true testament to the transformative power of music. With her talent and passion, Emily is making a positive impact in the world, one song at a time. Be sure to mark your calendars for 16/10/23 and prepare to be entranced by An Mhaighdean Mhara – The Maiden of the Sea.