Music has always been a source of solace, hope, and inspiration for many. But for Irish musician and stuttering advocate, Emily Magner Hurley, it has been something more. Her new album, “Orainn (Us)”, releasing on 16/10/23, is not just a collection of beautiful music, it is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the human spirit. Magner Hurley, a coloratura soprano, is known for her breathtaking performances and her strong advocacy for stuttering awareness and mental wellbeing.
With roughly 1% of the world’s population living with stuttering, it is a topic that is often overshadowed and not talked about enough. But not for Magner Hurley. Her passion for advocacy and her unwavering belief in the healing power of music has led her to create this stunning album that speaks volumes about her character. “Orainn (Us)” is a fusion of original and traditional Irish folk songs, each one carefully crafted with layers of harmonies, motifs, and poignant lyrics. Magner Hurley, who holds a masters in composition from University College Cork, seamlessly combines acapella, jazz fusion, and classical styles to create a sound that is spiritual, mindful and meditative.
The album is a reflection of Magner Hurley’s own journey of self-discovery and her constant efforts to find peace and solace through music. But this album is not just about her. It is also a tribute to the work of the Stuttering Awareness Mental Wellbeing Ireland (SAMWI) team, of which she has been a part of since its establishment in 2019. Their mission to bring hope and support to those living with a stutter has found a strong ally in Magner Hurley and her music. In fact, one of the tracks on the album, “A Bhríd Óg Ní Mháille,” is dedicated to deputy White House Chief of Staff Jen O’Malley-Dillon, who has been an ardent supporter of the SAMWI campaign.
Her kindness and appreciation for the work of SAMWI has made a lasting impression on Magner Hurley, just like the subject of the song, “O’Malley,” did. Throughout the album, Magner Hurley pays homage to the traditional Irish songs, particularly the style of singing, Sean-Nós, meaning “old way.” But she adds her own unique twist with intricate arrangements and techniques from jazz and classical music, resulting in a fresh and imaginative sound. Her debut album, “Airs & Graces,” released in 2020, was met with rave reviews from local media outlets in her native Cork. And now, with “Orainn (Us),” she hopes to continue to spread her message of hope and inspiration, especially during these challenging times. It is noteworthy that Magner Hurley’s love for music goes beyond just performing and composing. As a secondary school teacher, she has seen firsthand the positive impact music can have on people’s mental wellbeing. And through her work with SAMWI, she continues to use her passion to bring comfort and support to those who need it the most. Ultimately, “Orainn (Us)” is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the healing power of music. With each exquisite track, Magner Hurley invites us to join her in a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and hope. The album will be available on all platforms on 16/10/23. So, mark your calendars and let the beautiful music of Emily Magner Hurley soothe your soul.