Up to 5,000 young musicians from around the country will compete in 186 competitions in this year's ESB Feis Ceoil.

The 118th feis takes place in the RDS in Dublin from March 31st to April 11th.

“The Feis Ceoil has an amazing history, showcasing the best of Irish musical talent around the country,” said Bríd Horan, ESB deputy chief executive, at yesterday’s launch.

This year’s feis introduces a new orchestral conducting competition which gives aspiring Irish conductors a platform to develop their skills.

Finalists will have the chance to conduct the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at studio one in RTÉ next month.

Most of Ireland's top classical musicians have competed at the Feis Ceoil over the years, including John McCormack, John O'Conor, Finghin Collins and Cara O'Sullivan.

A gala concert featuring a selection of competition winners and the ESB School Choir of the Year will take place on April 30th at the National Concert Hall in Dublin.

Feisceoil.ie