Sponsors

November 2026

We are delighted to announce that IFPI, the organisation representing the recording industry worldwide, will be the main sponsor of the closing concert of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, on Tuesday 8 December 2026 at Flagey.

The evening, presented in partnership with the Embassy of Ireland to Belgium, celebrates Ireland’s musical voice with Bill Whelan’s Cloudsong and Reel Around the Sun, Stanford’s Irish Rhapsody No. 1, and Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony. At its heart is the world première of the winning work of BCE’s composition competition Sounds of Ireland, which drew 33 entries from Irish composers. The Ambassador of Ireland to Belgium will present the Composition Award on stage, moments before the new work is heard for the first time.

For IFPI, the partnership reflects its commitment to helping music thrive and supporting the next generation of musical talent:

“Music has the power to bring people together across communities, cultures and borders. We are proud to support an event that celebrates artistic excellence, new composition and the next generation of creators. This partnership reflects our belief in the long-lasting value of music and the human creativity that lies at its heart,” said Victoria Oakley, CEO of IFPI.

“We are delighted to support the Brussels Chamber Ensemble’s celebration of Irish musical heritage and new creative talent. Music is one of Europe’s great cultural strengths, with local artists and repertoire continuing to resonate strongly with audiences across the continent. This concert is a wonderful reflection of the diversity, creativity and cultural exchange that make Europe’s music ecosystem so vibrant,” said Lodovico Benvenuti, Director of Multilateral Relations, and Regional Director Europe of IFPI

“Every BCE concert is built on generosity — of the musicians who give their evenings, of the partners who believe in us. To have IFPI, the voice of music worldwide, choose to stand with us is a wonderful vote of confidence in what this orchestra is about: European music, emerging talent, and a community that plays for the love of it,” said Despina Kornilaki, Co-founder and Cello Leader of the Brussels Chamber Ensemble.

About IFPI

IFPI is the voice of the recording industry worldwide, representing more than 8,000 record company members across the globe. We work to promote the value of recorded music, campaign for the rights of record producers and expand the commercial uses of recorded music around the world.

Press contact

Despina Kornilaki, BCE Co-founder & Cello leader · info@brusselschamberensemble.eu · www.brusselschamberensemble.eu

We are grateful to all our partners and sponsors, whose invaluable support allows the Brussels Chamber Ensemble to showcase Europe’s finest music and elevate talented contemporary composers.

Get in touch to explore how we can elevate music in Brussels and celebrate Europe together.