SCHOOLCHILDREN FROM one of Limerick’s regeneration areas took to the stage with members of the Irish Chamber Orchestra yesterday as part of an innovative programme aimed at galvanising a new generation of music lovers.
“Sing out with Strings” is the second phase of a chamber orchestra initiative that began last year at Galvone National School in Southill.
Together with children from St Mary’s Boys School, they performed their own compositions, accompanied by the Irish Chamber Orchestra, at the Church of the Holy Family, Southill. A €15,000 donation, from the JP McManus Foundation enabled Galvone to buy its own violins and set up an instrument library for students.
Such is the enthusiasm for this project that 20 members of staff, including the school caretaker, are attending morning music boot camp with chamber orchestra musician Lisa Grosman.
“If you had asked me before would I ever play the violin, I would have laughed at you! I’ve never played an instrument before but I said I would give it a go,” explained Galvone school caretaker Dermot O’Brien.
Ms Grosman hopes the project will help the children “develop discipline, concentration, self-esteem and a sense of accountability that will encourage them in their overall approach to their education and their plans in life”.
Sixth-class students Chelsea Lynch and Michael Kelly were among those who performed.
“I love when we get to play with the orchestra and with all of our friends in the class,” said Chelsea.