Mayo schools enjoy trad session to mark successful traditional Irish music project

THREE Mayo primary schools – Behy NS, Boniconlon NS, and Cooneal NS – recently celebrated the successful conclusion of their two-year Creative Clusters traditional music project with a traditional Irish music session at the Great National Hotel in Ballina.

The event marked the culmination of a collaboration under the Department of Education’s Creative Clusters initiative, which supports schools in exploring creative approaches to learning.

The music session featured performances from each of the three schools, culminating in a joint performance of ‘Dreams’ by The Cranberries.

In the past two years, the north Mayo schools worked together to promote and encourage traditional music, with a shared belief that music is for everyone.

The project has led to a huge expansion in both the number and variety of instruments being played in schools.

The celebration in the Great National Hotel was covered by RTÉ and Midwest Radio and was attended by special guests, including local TD Minister Dara Calleary, Michael McKenzie, Director of Mayo Education Centre, and Katie Sweeney, National Director for the Integration of the Arts in Education.

Speaking at the event, a school spokesperson noted: “This project has brought our schools together in the most meaningful way - through creativity, culture, and community. It’s been a joyful and transformative experience for our pupils, and we’re incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.”

ENDS