Young Mayo musicians jam with US Navy Band

The transformative power of music was audible in Dublin recently when 37 young musicians from Music Generation programmes in Mayo, Waterford, Kerry and Galway took part in an inspiring masterclass with the US Naval Forces
Europe and Africa Band. Facilitated by the US Embassy, the unique opportunity allowed the young musicians to immerse themselves in a day of learning, performance and creativity with the esteemed ensemble.

The event took place at Dublin City University in the lead up to US Navy Band’s performance at the College Football Classic between Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Navy Midshipmen at the Aviva Stadium.
Music Generation Mayo is part of Music Generation, Ireland’s national music education programme which gives children and young people access to high-quality performance music education. Music Generation believes in an Ireland where every child and young person is given the opportunity to transform their lives through the power of music making and learning.
The talented young wind and brass players representing Music Generation Mayo and Foxford Brass and Reed Band, were delighted to take part in the workshop with the US Navy Band. The masterclass provided a platform for young musicians to refine their skills, explore new techniques, and engage in New Orleans style music-making alongside the band members.

"I’ve been playing music for nearly 10 years, and I’ve never had something like this happen before. It was amazing. It’s hard to put into words, you’ve got to feel it to believe it!’  Aaron, a trombone player with Foxford Brass and Reed Band stated. 
The masterclass concluded with a fantastic New Orleans jazz-style collaboration between the US Navy Band and young musicians to an audience including DCU President Daire Keogh, Lieutenant Commander Kelly L Cartwright, Director of the US Naval Forces Europe and Africa Band and representatives from Notre Dame University.

"These are the sort of transformative experiences that we want to create for all of the children and young people of Mayo. Experiences that demonstrate the power that music has to make a difference in the world," Damian Evans, Music Development Officer, Music Generation Mayo concluded.