Music Generation Mayo offers free Uilleann pipes taster session for young people


Young people aged 10–18 years can experience the sound and tradition of the uilleann pipes up close at a free taster session in Castlebar, Mayo, on Saturday, November 14.
Have you ever wondered what the Uilleann Pipes Sound Like Up Close? Music Generation Mayo, in partnership with Na Píobairí Uilleann and Music of Mayo, is offering young people a free taster session this Saturday, November 14!
Young people will have the opportunity to try the Uilleann pipes for themselves with guidance from master pipers Leonard Barry and Emer Mayock and learn about upcoming tuition opportunities in Mayo. They will also enjoy performances from young musicians from previous Music Generation Mayo Programmes. Music Generation Mayo is delighted that young people will have the opportunity to meet Leonard Barry, one of Ireland's leading uilleann pipers. Leonard has earned widespread acclaim for his expressive and highly skilled playing. BBC Radio 2 Folk Show described him as a musician who "plays the pipes with flair and natural rhythm that places him among the best," while The Irish Times praised his “disciplined style” and “enviable precision.”
Joining him is Emer Mayock, a Mayo native, an internationally renowned musician and Grammy Award winner. As well as being an accomplished flute and uilleann pipes player, she has composed music for theatre productions and documentaries. Emer is a tutor on the Music Generation Mayo piping programme.
Music Generation Mayo, County Mayo's music education programme for children and young people, is part of Ireland's national Music Generation network. Its mission is to ensure that all children and young people have the opportunity to access and benefit from high-quality music-making experiences, regardless of background or circumstance. Try the Pipes offers a unique opportunity to experience the sound and tradition of the uilleann pipes up close. The event is open to young people aged 10–18 years, with instruments provided on the day. No prior musical experience is needed. This free event will take place on Saturday, November 14, at Bridge Street Bar, Bridge Street, Castlebar, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm.
Music Generation Mayo is managed by Mayo Music Education Partnership, led by Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim Education and Training Board in partnership with Mayo County Council Arts Office, Mayo Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and Mayo Education Centre. For further information on Music Generation Mayo initiatives.