Music Network and Age Friendly Ireland are inviting residents of counties Laois, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon and Westmeath, aged 55 and over, to join an exciting music project.

Making Music in the Midlands is led by renowned musicians Alec O’Leary (guitar), Angelina Carberry (banjo/mandolin/whistle), Dan Brouder (button accordion), Adele O'Dwyer (violin/viola/cello), Phil Robson (guitar), Ciaran Wilde (saxophone/clarinet), Catherine McEvoy (flute), and Jacinta McEvoy (guitar/concertina).

The focus of this project is on returning to playing an instrument and sharing the joy of group music-making. Residents of the five counties can apply now to take part over eight weeks between August and September 2022.

Applicants must be aged 55 or over, resident in one of the five counties mentioned above, and have some previous experience of playing music. The ability to read music is not essential. People resident in the five counties may apply to take part in any one of the five residencies, however priority within each county will go to applicants resident in that particular county.

Tuition is free of charge and instruments can be provided if necessary for the duration of the project. With a view to ensuring inclusivity and that financial circumstances or lack of transport do not act as barriers to participation, one of the residencies may be offered as an online experience, according to demand. Technical support to enable online learning will be provided to participants if necessary.

The Midlands Teaching Residencies are presented by Music Network and Age Friendly Ireland. Music Network is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. This initiative is supported by Creative Ireland.

Project Details

Benefitting from the combined musical backgrounds of the teaching musicians, the tuition programmes will offer participants the opportunity to experience an array of musical styles and techniques.

Over eight weeks, three one-to-one and two group lessons and two ensemble sessions will be provided in each county. Two coffee sessions will also be held per county to give people the opportunity to socialise and reflect on their musical journey.

Places are limited to nine per county. Priority will be given on a first come, first served basis. However, additional criteria that will be used for selection include county of residence, availability of teaching slots, ability to partake in the entire programme and geographical spread throughout the midlands.

Click the link below for individual county residency details and how to apply.