BACK TO TY:Ross McNally of The Chapters

DUBLIN BAND The Chapters got a great reaction from an enthusiastic crowd of TY students at the recent Young Social Innovators event in Dublin (see main article). The band has played at previous YSI events and has also taken their show into schools. Lead singer Ross McNally (below, centre) says that they’re keen to ensure all ages get to see their shows. “Under-18s can go to some gigs, but a lot of bands play in pub venues so they can’t get in to see them. We’ve decided to hold an all-ages gig on Saturday April 24th at 2pm in the Button Factory so anybody, of any age, can come along.”

McNally and The Chapters’ guitarist Simon Eustace have busked together since the age of 14, but Transition Year at High School Rathgar influenced McNally’s decision to pursue a career in music. “I loved Transition Year,” he says. “It was a nice break and a good opportunity to try out lots of different subjects. Anything artistic and creative, from art to films and music, was encouraged. I’d always played music but in Transition Year there was a chance to explore different sides of your character; it wasn’t all about exams and academia.”

Having watched hundreds of students put forward their ideas to change the world for the better at the YSI Speak Out, McNally is proud of his association with the annual event. “It’s great to see young people making their voices heard and engaging with social issues,” he says.

The band is due to play a showcase gig in London before embarking on a tour of Europe. “We’re all working part-time at the moment, so not all the band were able to make it here today, and one band member was sick, but if this takes off, we hope to make it our full-time job. Music is so enjoyable and something we all want to pursue.”

myspace.com/thechaptersofficial