Forum set up to develop traditional music sector in Northern Ireland
As part of its Music Strategy 2013 -2018, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland has established a forum to specifically focus on the development of the traditional music sector in the region.
Bringing together a number of traditional music organisations, the aim is to explore the sector’s own aspirations and proposals for development, and encourage these organisations to advocate for the inclusion of traditional musics in Northern Ireland’s formal music education provision.
Ciaran Scullion, Head of Music, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “As part of our commitment to act as a proactive development agency in the music sector, respecting all kinds of music, we recognise that the distinct traditional musics of Northern Ireland have a special place in the culture of the region and we are committed to a long-term programme of support and development, to be guided by the sector.”
In addition to the setting up of the Traditional Music Forum, the Arts Council’s programme of support also involves the commissioning of a full audit of traditional music to inform both future planning and advocacy for increased support. Dermot McLaughlin has been commissioned to undertake this audit in Northern Ireland. Mr McLaughlin, a native of Derry-Londonderry, is well known traditional fiddle player and broadcaster. He is currently Chairman of the Irish Traditional Music Archive which he helped establish in 1987. Dermot McLaughlin’s professional involvement with traditional music includes his role as Traditional Music Officer with the Arts Council (Dublin), record producer with Claddagh Records and writer & presenter with RTE television.
The inaugural meeting of the new Traditional Music Forum will take place Thursday 16th October, 10am - 11.30am in the Ramada Encore, St Anne’s Square Belfast. For more information contact Maria McAlister mmcalister [at] artscouncil-ni.org (subject: Traditional%20Music%20Forum%20Meeting) or 02890385200.