Music Generation Cavan Monaghan -

The successful launch of Music Generation Cavan Monaghan in February 2020 at Townhall, Cavan was a reminder of the value of access to performance music education for children and young people. The interest in the programme from local schools and the community has been tremendous. Speaking at the launch Cllr. Clifford Kelly, Chairperson of Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board said:

“Not only has Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan brought music to everyday lives of our children and young people, it has also provided employment in the region for local musicians, enabling them to work in their native counties, bringing their skill and musicianship to the future music-makers of Monaghan and Cavan.”

In September 2019, 23 primary schools in Cavan and Monaghan commenced a programme with approximately 916 children and young people, aged between 5 and 12 years. A team of 8 Musician Educators are working to deliver this programme and the schools in Cavan include the Holy Family Special School, Cootehill.

Early Years’ Programme

An 8-week pilot programme commenced in late October, in 4 childcare settings, with 2 Musician Educators, and a Musician Educator commencing a mentorship programme, in Cavan and Monaghan.

Non-programmed projects

Elsewhere Michael Gallen opera project, took place in Castleblaney in November 2019 with development support from Monaghan County Council.

Music Generation Cavan / Monaghan facilitated mentorship opportunities for 5 secondary level Music students in Co. Monaghan. In addition, 70 Transition Year/Leaving Certificate Music students had the opportunity to attend an open rehearsal and Question and Answer session with the composer and the creative team. Despite the current Covid 19 restrictions the Music Generation Cavan Monaghan team are working to ensure continuation in delivering an amended programme in co-operation with schools and music educators. Music Generation is a partnership between the local authorities of Cavan and Monaghan with lead partner Cavan Monaghan Education Training Board and with match funding and guidance from Music Generation National Development Office. Details can be found at: https://www.musicgeneration.ie/programmes/details/music-generation-cavan-monaghan/

Mairead Duffy, Music Generation Officer Cavan Monaghan