Music Rich Schools is initiated by Music Generation Laois to target DEIS schools in Co. Laois: Scoil Bhride, Knockmay, Portlaoise; Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Mountmellick; St Joseph’s GNS, Mountmellick; to ensure every child in these schools are given the opportunity to access performance music education, regardless of economic, cultural or social barriers. 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 addition to the provision of weekly music classes, a live music programme for participants, partnering with the Dunamaise Arts Centre has been developed. To-date young musicians from the Music-Rich Schools project have attended concerts by European Chamber Philharmonic, The Far Flung Trio, Maire Ní Chathasaigh and Chris Newman and Ceol Connected: The Enchanted Forest.

Young musicians and singers from Scoil Bhride in Knockmay Portlaoise, attend weekly customised music classes, from 1st class to 6th. They also have access to an early years music programme, a singing programme, a school choir, a ukulele programme and a violin programme, with a team of 4 tutors from Music Generation Laois working with students.

Image credit: Denis Byrne

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