Gaelscoil hit perfect note

The Primary Ensemble Project proved to be a truly memorable experience for our school, culminating in a fantastic trip to the National Concert Hall in Dublin last Monday week. This project is organised in collaboration with the Royal Irish Academy of Music and the National Concert Hall. Bringing together nine schools from across the country, the event celebrated not only musical talent but also collaboration, creativity, and the joy of performance.

Throughout the year our musical group met for after school sessions with music teachers: Orla McNamara, Naomi Uí Chircoráin agus Liz Gaughan. We had four visiting tutors to our school for workshops, conducting and playing.

In the NCH each school showcased its own unique piece, highlighting the diversity of styles and abilities among the young musicians. Our school proudly performed a lively and engaging medley featuring Sharon Shannon’s ‘Happy One Step’ alongside Coldplay’s ‘Viva La Vida’. The combination of traditional Irish energy and contemporary flair created a vibrant performance that was both enjoyable to play and exciting for the audience.

A particularly special aspect of the project was the opportunity to collaborate with another school. We were delighted to partner with Moyne National School, outside Thurles, to perform ‘Accidentally in Love’ from Shrek. This joint performance captured the spirit of teamwork at the heart of the project, as students from different schools came together seamlessly to create something truly uplifting. We welcomed Moyne NS to our school and our children provided hospitality in the form of cakes and buns to add to the social dimension of the day.

The concert concluded on a high note, with all participating schools joining together to perform a medley of the Carpenters song ‘Sing’ and ‘I’d like to teach the World to Sing’. This powerful finale brought a sense of unity and celebration, filling the concert hall with music and shared achievement.

The day was made even more special by the strong support from parents who travelled to Dublin to be part of the occasion. Their enthusiasm and pride added to the wonderful atmosphere and made the experience even more meaningful for the students.

For many of our young musicians this was their third time playing in the National Concert Hall in Dublin as we have previously played here with the Waltons Music for Schools Competition.

Overall, the Primary Ensemble Project was an outstanding success. Expertly organised in partnership with the Royal Irish Academy of Music and the National Concert Hall, it provided an invaluable opportunity for young musicians to perform in a prestigious venue, collaborate with peers, and develop their confidence and skills. It is a day that will be remembered fondly by all involved.