Music Generation areas have been hosting end-of-term concerts, gigs and performances for family, friends and peers. This is an opportunity for young musicians to showcase their newly acquired skills, songs and compositions with their local communities.
Music Generation Carlow hosted its highly-anticipated end-of-year showcase in what was an unforgettable evening of musical accomplishment.
The concert featured performances by talented individuals, duos and groups from both county Hub programmes, as well as Reelig, ReelÓg and county ensembles. The evening also featured a performance by alumni musicians of the Music Generation Carlow programme and an extraordinary showcase by the professional musician educator team.
The concert was held in in The Exchange, Carlow. This new creative space in the heart of Carlow town was a wonderful backdrop for the event.
Special guests included Music Generation National Director Rosaleen Molloy; KCETB Deputy Chairperson Cllr Andrea Dalton; Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council Cllr Brian O’Donoghue and Cllr Tom O’Neill.
Each performance captivated the audience, from the Hub students who displayed incredible growth and talent, to the beautiful arrangements played by the county ensemble members of Reelig and ReelÓg.
In a bittersweet moment for the programme, Reelig’s performance represented the final official contribution from two of its longest-standing members, Sonny Cahill and Cliodhna Murphy, who are progressing to third-level education. We would like to wish them the very best in their studies and hope to see them back playing with Music Generation Carlow as special guests.
Separately, Music Generation Carlow's alumni musicians added a touch of nostalgia, demonstrating how their musical journeys have flourished since their time with Music Generation Carlow. Their performances were a testament to the transformative power of music education and the lasting impact it has on individuals.
A highlight of the evening was the special performance by Music Generation Carlow's professional musician educator team, featuring HUB co-ordinator and lead traditional musician, Áine Donohoe, who produced the event.
The ensemble included Paul Horahan, Paul Brett, Brian Murphy, Megan McDonald, Thomas O’Donoghue, Rachel Kavanagh, Diarmuid O’Neill and Áine Donohoe. Their performance served as an inspiration to all the young musicians present.
After the performance, Music Development Officer for Music Generation Carlow Gavin Barr commented,
"On behalf of the Music Generation Carlow team, I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to all the performers, educators, supporters, and the Carlow community for making our end-of-year showcase a resounding success. I would also like to thank Cliodhna Murphy and Sonny Cahill for all their hard work and commitment to the Music Generation Carlow programme and wish them well in college. They will both be missed."
See lots more photos form the Music Generation Carlow event here.
We would like to say a massive well done to all the young musicians who took part in end-of-term performances. Thank you to our local Music Generation teams and musician educators who make it all happen.
Music Generation is Ireland’s National Music Education Programme that gives children, and young people access to high-quality, subsidised performance music education.Initiated by Music Network, Music Generation is co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds, the Department of Education and Local Music Education Partnerships (LMEPs). The Education and Training Board and Local Authorities play a lead role.
Follow Us on social media for future opportunities, stories of impact and events nationwide: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
Scroll to the end of this webpage to sign up for our Newsletter.
Find your local Music Generation here.
Photos by DGM Photography
A look back at Access Artistry and Advocacy - Music Generation's National Conference which spotlighted the importance of access to music.
On 2nd March 2024 over 1,000 music makers from all over Ireland attended 'We are Music Generation' at the Convention Centre.
We are asking young musicians nationwide to share online what music means to them and their favourite music-making moments.
Get the latest news and stories from the Music Generation network delivered straight to your inbox each month.