Evaluating the Case for a Virtual Research Environment for Researchers of Irish Composition

This article describes a study to determine whether there exists a need for a custom-built Virtual Research Environment (VRE) for academic and independent researchers who study Irish-based music composition. It assesses the potential forms such a VRE could take, based on user requirements and existing VRE models. Challenges and limitations for researchers are identified as possible entry-points for VRE solutions. The feasibility of using components of existing VRE projects for this purpose is considered. Finally, two possible scenarios for the implementation of a VRE are discussed.