More Info
Applications open for Musician-In-Residence: Music Network and St. John’s Theatre and Arts Centre (Listowel)
- Closing date for applications: 14th May 2024, 12pm
- St. John’s Theatre and Arts Centre, Listowel, Co. Kerry
Not long ago, we visited Rathnew in County Wicklow to catch up with Trio Táin and the participants of our Wicklow Teaching Residency.
The residency, a partnership with Wicklow County Arts Office, invited residents of County Wicklow aged 55 and over to reconnect with an instrument they used to play. The residency offered participants free tuition from professional musicians and access to instruments for the duration of the programme.
Last November, 15 participants embarked on a journey with us. Working with the group Trio Tain, which features renowned musicians Aisling Ennis, Vourneen Ryan and Robin Panter, they have been receiving tuition on harp, flute, recorder, violin and viola and have explored all kinds of music everything from baroque, classical and world to folk, pop and more.
Music is about playing together.
Robin starts today’s classes with fun and dynamic exercises that help the group to connect and relax. Throughout the session there is music, clapping, words of encouragement and laughter, and of course a short break and time to chat with new friends over tea.
The participants told us that through their weekly workshops they had learned about the importance of practising together as well as techniques to help them feel the rhythm and get fully immersed in the music. They spoke about how much they had enjoyed the classes while gradually growing more confident as the weeks progressed.
The residency certainly seems to have ignited new friendships among the participants too. Many of the group members mentioned that they sometimes felt isolated when practising alone, but now that the residency is drawing to an end, they are already making plans to get together and practise even after the project ends.
The Wicklow Teaching Residency is presented by Wicklow County Council Arts Office and Music Network. This initiative is funded by Creative Ireland.
