Other News In Brief

Symphony Sunday Set To Take Place

Symphony Sunday, hosted by Belfast City Council, is set to place on Sunday 25 August.

Taking place from 1pm to 5pm at Crescent Gardens, near the Botanic and Queen's areas of Belfast, the event invites visitors to relax on the lawn, enjoy soothing music and explore a range of food, crafts and handmade goods from various stalls.

Among those performing at the event are singer/songwriters’ Winnie Ama and Aaron Jamieson.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Micky Murray, said: "We have had a number of top events in our parks this year including Spring Fest and Summer Rose Fair, and, Symphony Sunday at Crescent Gardens will be another one.

"It will have a retro feel and relaxed picnic-style celebrating our local artisans and market traders who will be selling tasty food and unique, handmade products. So come along on Sunday 25 August, browse the different stalls, listen to some live music and enjoy a great afternoon with family and friends!"

among the produce will be sweet and savoury treats as well as handmade ceramics, jewellery, crocheted items and accessories.

Families Of Omagh Bomb Victims Deserve The Truth -Sinn Fein

Sinn Féin MLA, Nicola Brogan, stated that families who lost loved ones in the Omagh bombings are entitled to complete truth and transparency.

The West Tyrone MLA said: "My thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones in the Omagh bomb twenty-six years ago today. These grieving families have fought for decades with dignity and determination, they deserve full truth and disclosure. With the long-overdue public inquiry now underway, I want to extend my party's continued support and solidarity to the families in their efforts to achieve truth and justice for their loved ones."

Translink Invites NI Pianists To Compete for Performance at Belfast Grand Central Station

Translink has called on pianists across Northern Ireland to compete for the opportunity to perform at Belfast Grand Central Station this autumn.

The GRAND Pianist competition, open to amateur players of all ages and skill levels, will feature regional heats across Northern Ireland as part of a traveling roadshow. A concert piano will visit five rail and bus stations throughout August and September, culminating in the Grand Final at Belfast's new, world-class station.

The roadshow will make stops at Lanyon Place in Belfast, Newry Bus Station, North-West Transport Hub in Derry~Londonderry, Bangor Train Station and Coleraine Train Station. Participants are encouraged to play the concert piano and register for the regional heats at these locations.

Leading professional musician, Matthew Owens – who has over 30 years' experience in the music industry as a conductor, composer, pianist, and organist – has been chosen by Translink as 'The GRAND Pianist' Head Judge. Matthew will travel the length and breadth of Northern Ireland to find talented local pianists worthy of a place at the Grand Final, where he will be joined by special guest judges to decide on the overall winner.

Launching the competition, Translink Group Chief Executive, Chris Conway said its principal aim was to connect people through music. He said: "We hope 'The GRAND Pianist' will brighten passengers’ journeys, as well as uncover local talent to help us celebrate Belfast Grand Central Station which, beyond transport, will ensure Northern Ireland is Better Connected today and for future generations. We would love everyone to get involved, whether by entering one of the regional heats or supporting someone playing the piano when you’re passing by."

Judge Matthew Owens added: "I can’t wait to begin the search to discover local talented pianists. It’s fantastic to see Translink support the arts sector by providing a platform for people to perform in front of an audience in the spectacular surroundings of the new transport hub."

Details of the roadshow timetable, as well as dates and times for regional heats, can be found on Translink's website.