Music Rich Schools is a Music Generation Laois outreach project that targets DEIS schools in County Laois, to ensure every child in these schools were given the opportunity to access performance music education, regardless of economic, cultural or social barriers.
Musician educator Dale McKay from Music Generation Laois delivering the Bodhran programme to 4th class pupils at Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Mountmellick, which is supported by Creative Ireland Laois as part of the Creative Ireland Programme (2017-2022) in partnership with Laois County Council.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
The project focuses specifically on areas where the most disadvantage exists in the county, and ensures the creative potential of every child in these areas is enabled.
Music Generation Laois provides subsidised programmes to schools across County Laois, however, costs have been further subsidised for schools participating in the Music Rich project to allow for increased engagement.
In 2021, the Music-Rich schools’ project took place in Mountmellick Girls School (tin whistle/traditional music appreciation) and Mountmellick Boys School (bodhrán).
Taking part in the Music Generation Laois Bodhran programme at 4th class, Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Mountmellick, which is supported by Creative Ireland Laois as part of the Creative Ireland Programme (2017-2022) in partnership with Laois County Council.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
The Music-rich schools programme adapted very well under Covid restrictions, from Jan-March when in lockdown tin whistle classes were delivered on zoom, and from April-June when back in school in-person traditional music appreciation was programmed in lieu of tin whistle, and was very well received.
Since September 2021, through the LOETB Local Youth Creative Partnership scheme, progression routes are now available for participants to continue their musical development without financial barriers with both Portlaoise College and Mountmellick Community School participating in the project.
For more information go to https://www.musicgenerationlaois.ie/music-rich-schools/
Musician educator Dale McKay from Music Generation Laois delivering the Bodhran programme to 4th class pupils at Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Mountmellick, which is supported by Creative Ireland Laois as part of the Creative Ireland Programme (2017-2022) in partnership with Laois County Council. Included in picture are principal Mr John Murrell and teacher Ms Josephine Byrnes.
Picture: Alf Harvey.