Video: Changing lives through Irish music in Drumshanbo
The annual charity Irish music concert from Drumshanbo students returns this year on March 4, in The Mayflower, Drumshanbo.
The concert is special not only because the proceeds will go to DVAS (Domestic violence Advocacy Service) and 24/7 Family Carers in North Leitrim but because it is the culmination of a year of music tutoring and development.
13 students meet five days a week in Drumshanbo, every week to learn Irish music, develop tunes and submerge into Irish traditional culture.
Students come from all over Ireland and tutor Mossie Martin says next September's class is already full and there is a waiting list for the following year.
The traditional music course was set up in 1997 and attracts people from lots of different backgrounds, age groups and skill levels.
The MSLETB course is QQI level 5 accredited and students can avail of VTOS funding.
Aoife Ní Heochaidh originally from Tallaght has moved locally and said the course has been “life changing,” she plays a number of instruments and hopes to use what she learns here in her future career.
Christina Ginter from Austria moved to Leitrim after visiting the Joe Mooney Summer School for a number of years. Christina's husband first did this course and Christina said she could not wait to get involved. She said the course has allowed her to “inhale the Irish culture.” She said she has made so many connections and friendships through music.
The students will also travel to Barcelona this year as part of an Erasmus EU programme, which is fully funded.
The Aislinn Gheal charity concert starts at 8pm on Friday, March 4.
Tickets are €10 available on the door, in Drumshanbo Post Office and from any of the students.
Marie Eames-McGowan said 24/7 Family Carers are delighted to be back up and running after covid and need the money from this concert to rent a room and allow carers to take part in activities.
You can also donate to the charities on www.idonate.ie and look for traditionalcourse22.
If you want to learn more about the VTOS funded course you can email: [email protected] or contact Sean Bailey on 086-0624200 or [email protected]