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Ed Sheeran, the well-known singer and songwriter, is expanding his foundation’s work to the island of Ireland. The Ed Sheeran Foundation is starting by supporting a project called North South Sounds 2026. This project brings together 50 young musicians from Belfast and Cork, giving them the chance to work together, learn from each other, and perform in front of audiences. The young people, aged 13 to 17, come from the Oh Yeah Centre in Belfast and Music Generation in Cork. They have been practicing together and will soon perform at the Oh Yeah Centre and City Hall.

Chelsea Andrews, who works at the Oh Yeah Centre, says it is amazing that Ed Sheeran is supporting young musicians in these cities. She believes that having someone as famous as Ed Sheeran back their work gives the young musicians more confidence. Chelsea, who is also a singer and guitarist in the band GUSH, knows how important it is for young people to have encouragement. She says that even talented musicians sometimes doubt themselves, so having a mentor or a peer to inspire and motivate them is really important. She is excited about the upcoming concert at the Fleadh festival, although she admits there is a bit of nervousness among the performers.

Avery, who is 15, and Manas, who is 14, are members of a band called The Ladies-Men. They have been rehearsing at the Oh Yeah Centre as part of the North South Sounds 2026 project. Avery says that working with young musicians from Cork has been a great experience. She has made new friends and learned new things about music. Manas says that support and encouragement are vital for young musicians. He feels that without the help of his parents, teachers, and the Oh Yeah Centre, he might not have gotten involved in music at all. Cheylene Murphy, a musician from the band Beauty Sleep, has been leading workshops for the young people. She helps them write new music and gives them advice about performing and the music industry. The young musicians are looking forward to performing at the Future Sounds of Belfast Showcase. Ed Sheeran says that Ireland is a special place for him, and he wants every child to have the chance to learn and enjoy music. He hopes that his foundation’s work will help make that possible for more young people.