Ed Sheeran’s charity expanding to Ireland with Belfast event

The Ed Sheeran Foundation (ESF) is starting its first overseas project, North South Sounds 2026.

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

The charity strives to connect young people with peers from different areas promote self-expression, and engage children who might otherwise lack access to music creation, instrument tuition and performance opportunities.

Throughout the workshops, young musicians are encouraged to blend influences and genres, merging elements of traditional Irish and folk music with other genres such as hip-hop, and pop.

Ed Sheeran says he is delighted to bring the charity to his grandmother's homeland.

"I’ve spent loads of time in the country over the years," he said.

"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."

A highlight of North South Sounds 2026 will be youth-led gigs in both Cork City and Belfast. Other strands of the project include non-residential summer camps in Cork City and Belfast.

To date, ESF has supported 22 grassroots organisations and youth clubs in England, this is their first Irish project.