The Royal Irish Academy of Music is proud to celebrate the achievements of three Irish artists with strong RIAM connections who have been nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards. Composer Emma O’Halloran, composer Donnacha Dennehy and mezzo soprano Naomi Louisa O’Connell have each been recognised for their significant contributions to contemporary music and opera.
Emma O’Halloran, a graduate of RIAM, has been nominated in the Best Opera Recording category for Trade and Mary Motorhead, her powerful double opera created with Irish National Opera. Featuring a libretto by Mark O’Halloran and conducted by Elaine Kelly, the recording showcases an exceptional ensemble of Irish artists. The orchestra includes several performers closely linked to RIAM, among them Professor Sarah Sew, Head of Chamber Music at RIAM, on violin, Malachy Robinson from the RIAM Strings Faculty on double bass, Kenneth Edge from the Wind, Brass and Percussion Faculty on tenor saxophone, and Caitríona Frost, RIAM alumna and first class honours graduate of 2009, on percussion. O’Halloran’s nomination highlights the international reach of Irish opera and the collaborative strength of artists working within and alongside RIAM.
The Academy is also delighted to celebrate composer Donnacha Dennehy, who attended Junior RIAM. Dennehy has been nominated in two categories for his chamber work Land of Winter: Best Contemporary Classical Composition and Best Chamber Music or Small Ensemble Performance. Performed by Alarm Will Sound, the twelve movement piece explores the character and atmosphere of the Irish seasons through vivid rhythm, harmony and colour. Critics have praised the work for its imagination and emotional impact.
Mezzo soprano Naomi Louisa O’Connell, who completed her undergraduate studies at RIAM, has been nominated for her performances in both Emma O’Halloran’s Trade and Mary Motorhead and Mary Kouyoumdjian’s Adoration. O’Connell has been widely recognised for her expressive insight, vocal clarity and commanding presence. Her nominations reflect the growing visibility of Irish singers on the international operatic stage.
Together, these nominations shine a light on the talent, ambition and artistry of Irish composers and performers who are shaping contemporary classical music worldwide. RIAM is honoured to have supported each of these artists at formative stages in their musical paths.
The winners of the 2026 Grammy Awards will be announced on 1 February 2026 in Los Angeles.
Warm congratulations to Emma O’Halloran, Donnacha Dennehy and Naomi Louisa O’Connell on this significant achievement.