The Ed Sheeran Foundation is expanding its work into Ireland for the first time, launching its inaugural international project aimed at bringing together young people from across the island through music.
The initiative, titled North South Sounds 2026, is a cross-border partnership between the Ed Sheeran Foundation, Music Generation Cork City and Belfast's Oh Yeah Centre. Running from July to December 2026, the programme will connect 150 children and young people from Cork City and Belfast through songwriting, performance and community engagement.
The project is the first overseas initiative funded by the Ed Sheeran Foundation and is designed to encourage collaboration between young musicians while promoting creativity, social inclusion and cultural exchange.
Ed Sheeran said Ireland has always held a special place for him because of his family connections.
“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.”
The singer said the foundation's goal is to ensure more young people have access to music education and opportunities to perform.
“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. The first project kicks off at The Fleadh on Monday. I played the festival last year and have such fond memories of it. If you’re there, go and check out some of the incredible young talent.”
North South Sounds 2026 will encourage participants to combine traditional Irish and folk music with contemporary genres including hip-hop, pop and rock, creating new musical collaborations while celebrating local heritage and identity.
The programme will be delivered by music educators from Music Generation Cork City in partnership with Creative Tradition, The Kabin Studio and the Oh Yeah Centre. It is intended to support young people who may otherwise have limited access to music-making, instrumental tuition and live performance opportunities.
The initiative will officially launch at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann on August 3rd, when 50 young musicians will perform at Belfast City Hall, premiering music developed through collaborative workshops in advance of the festival.
The remaining six months of the programme will include non-residential summer camps in Cork City and Belfast, along with youth-led concerts in both cities. Organisers say the additional activities will extend participation to a further 100 young people while providing opportunities for creativity, collaboration and community building.
The announcement comes weeks after the Ed Sheeran Foundation confirmed its involvement in the UK Government's new Music in Libraries programme, which was inspired by discussions between the singer and UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy during a visit to one of the foundation's grant recipients in 2025.
