Ed Sheeran’s foundation is expanding its work to the island of Ireland, beginning by funding North South Sounds 2026, a project linking young musicians in Belfast and Cork. The initiative matters because it aims to widen access to music education and performance opportunities, while encouraging cross-border collaboration among young people.

Fifty musicians aged 13 to 17 from Belfast’s Oh Yeah Centre and Cork’s Music Generation have worked together and are scheduled to perform at the Oh Yeah Centre and Cork City Hall during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Sheeran, whose father is from Belfast, said Ireland is special to him and that every child should be able to take part in music; participants and organisers said mentoring and encouragement are vital for emerging musicians.