Published: Wednesday, 16th December, 2009 4:58pm

Christmas opera treat at Killeen Castle

The members of Killeen Castle Golf Club were treated to a unique classical Christmas concert last Saturday by one of the country's finest sopranos, Celine Byrne, accompanied on piano by Dearbhla Brosnan and on cello by Ailbhe McDonagh.

The concert was preceded with a sumptuous supper by a roaring log fire, where the yuletide spirit was enjoyed by a capacity full house.

The concert featured some well known songs and arias from the world of opera, Viennese operetta as well as several beautifully sung festive favourites.

Celine Byrne was the winner of The Maria Callas Grand Prix in 2007 and has sung at many of the major concert houses around the world. Celine has also sung with the internationally acclaimed tenor Robert Alagna and just over a week after her appearance at Killeen Castle, she will take to the stage in Zagreb with one of the original Three Tenors, Jose Carreras.

The Christmas concert was one of many special events held for members and their guests at Killeen Castle this year and they are planning a variety of similar events in 2010.

Visit www.killeencastle.com or call (01) 689 3000 for more information.

Celine will also take part in 'A Viennese Concert' fundraiser in Trim tonight (Wednesday), for the Alzheimer Society and Meath Homecare Services.