Ed Sheeran's charity funds cross-Border project for young Cork and Belfast musicians

Hannah Kate Costello

Singer Ed Sheeran’s music charity, The Ed Sheeran Foundation (ESF), is expanding into Ireland with its first-ever Irish cross-border partnership project.

Running from July to December 2026, North South Sounds is a cross-Border collaboration for young musicians from Cork and Belfast.

A spokeswoman for the musician said the children and young people’s music-making will be facilitated by musical educators from Music Generation Cork City in partnership with Creative Tradition, a traditional Irish music non-profit, and The Kabin Studio, a creative studio in Knocknaheen, alongside the Oh Yeah Centre, a charity and music hub based in Belfast.

The project will launch with performances by 50 young people at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann on 3rd August at Belfast City Hall.

Last year, Ed Sheeran made a surprise appearance at the Fleadh, performing a mix of his own hits and traditional Irish tunes alongside local artists at The Sky and The Ground pub in Wexford.

In a statement, Ed Sheeran said: “I’m so happy to be bringing the Ed Sheeran Foundation to Ireland. I’ve spent loads of time in the country over the years. Having family roots there, it’s a place that’s always been special to me."

"Every child should have the opportunity to learn and take part in music, and we’re continuing our work to help make that a reality."