Roscommon Creative Ireland support will allow BOC to invest in a number of Caribbean Steel Pan Drums and Percussion Sets and to engage experienced tutors to work with the people they support, teaching various musical styles and to assist in forming the Brothers of Charity Steel Pan Drum Band. 

A huge spectacle parade was put together by Spark Catchers in association with the Brothers of Charity staff members which saw the service users from many of the county’s facilities come together to tell the story of “Odras and the River Boyle.” Rhythmic instruments, support and tuition from Rhythm Riot Music added to the atmospheric enactment of the underworld Morrigan stealing the prized bull. 

In advance of and in preparation for the parade performance, the BOC Creative Arts programme in Roscommon collaborated with Music Generation tutors on percussion workshops and a number of the people supported have really shown a keen interest in developing their skills in this area. 

Playing rhythmic instruments can provide numerous benefits to individuals with additional intellectual needs. These benefits span cognitive, emotional, social, and physical domains, , contributing to overall well-being and development

Overall, rhythmic instrument playing can be a highly effective enjoyable tool for enhancing the quality of life and developmental outcomes for individuals with additional intellectual needs, all while providing an opportunity to perform in future events. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.