Last week in Rathnew 15 county Wicklow residents graduated from the Wicklow Teaching Residency. The budding musicians embarked on a journey with the group Trio Tain, which features renowned musicians Aisling Ennis, Vourneen Ryan and Robin Panter.
The residency, a partnership between Wicklow County Arts Office and Music Network, invited residents of County Wicklow aged 55 and over to reconnect with an instrument they used to play. It provided participants with free tuition from professional musicians and access to instruments for the duration of the programme.
Since November the participants have been receiving tuition on harp, flute, recorder, violin and viola and have been having fun exploring all kinds of music together – everything from baroque, classical and world to folk, pop and more.
“I am really loving the course and so glad that I took that first step of applying…I think after the ripe old age of 65, you tend to lose a lot of your confidence in your musical ability, and I can truly say this project has brought my love for music back to life again.” Mary Walsh, participant
“It has also been wonderful to link in with other like-minded musicians who are also taking up their instruments after long absences. I’m delighted to have started this new journey with Music Network.” Justine Baumann, participant
At their graduation the participants spoke about how much they had enjoyed the classes while gradually growing more confident as the weeks progressed. The residency has ignited new friendships among the participants too and the group are already making plans to get together and practice now that project has ended.
The Wicklow Teaching Residency is presented by Wicklow County Council Arts Office and Music Network. This initiative is funded by Creative Ireland.
Photo Credit: Senija Topcic
