Music Generation Louth: Christmas update
Christmas season is in full swing at Music Generation Louth and here is an update of some of the events that have taken place over the last few weeks.
On October 29th we launched our traditional and classical fusion group Nós Nua. Nós Nua has over 60 members, which include a broad range of traditional instruments along with piano, percussion, classical strings and brass. The students have been working through a series of workshops led by musicians from both classical and traditional backgrounds. Participation in Nós Nua is open to all young people from varying musical backgrounds interested in exploring the contemporary and traditional repertoire of local Irish music and song. For more information on the Nós Nua orchestra check out the groups facebook page linked below:
https://www.facebook.com/NosNuaLouth/
On November 25th our junior string ensemble made their debut at the Ardee Baroque concert, which was held in St. Mary’s Abbey in Ardee. The group performed a wonderful selection of music from the Baroque period under the guidance and mentorship of conductor Jayne Graham. The junior strings had a fantastic time and were greatly received by the audience.
On December 9th our annual string orchestra Christmas concert took place in the Dundalk Institute of Technology and featured performances by our senior strings, junior strings and chamber groups. The audience were treated to a selection of favourite pieces from throughout the year, along with well-known Christmas carols. The parents and families had a lovely time and even lent their singing voices to some of the Christmas carols. We would like to thank Jayne Graham and Clare Sweeney for all their work with the performers and to all the guests and families who brought along cakes and buns for all to enjoy.
On December 10th Music Generation Louth flute students were given the opportunity to join Sir James Galway and Lady Jeanne Galway for the first ‘Galway Community Flute Day’ flute workshop and masterclass. The masterclass took place in the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin and it gave students the chance to perform with other flute players from around the country and develop their skills on the instrument.
Our Pick Up and Play pop/rock bands are working hard writing new material and perfecting their setlists for the new year and we are now enrolling for next year’s classes, which will take place in Drogheda, Ardee and Dundalk. The classes focus on live performance, song writing and music production and are suited to those who would like to play pop and rock music as part of a group. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and develop their skills on electric guitar, bass, drums and keyboards. There are classes available to suit all levels and you can view the available classes via the link below. http://musicgenerationlouth.ie/pick-up-and-play-1718-important-information-and-class-timetables/
The 2018 term at Music Generation Louth will begin on January 15th and we look forward to another music filled year, which kicks off with a performance of Vivaldis’ Gloria by our Senior Strings and St Paul’s High School Choir, Bessbrook. The event will take place in St Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Armagh on Sunday 21 January 2018 at 7.30pm. All are welcome!
Orchestra starts back on January 6th and we have Nós Nua rehearsals on January 3rd, 4th and 5th .
Keep an eye on the website for more exciting performances, courses and workshops taking place in 2018 at Music Generation Louth.
