The Department of Education has launched a new initiative, aimed at expanding the teaching of music in schools. The scheme is being organised in co-operation with the IRMA Trust, who have purchased tin whistles for primary school teachers all over Ireland, to facilitate the programme.

While the first stage in the scheme will be aimed at teaching teachers how to play tin whistle – enabling them, in turn, to teach the instrument to children – the intention is to continue to expand the scheme with piano, guitar and other instruments being added to the range of skills being passed on in primary schools.

The scheme was launched at a press conference in Dublin, and was attended by the Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin and Andrea Corr – who played tin whistles together for the assembled reporters. “I fully support this initiative, as I was brought up in a school where music was considered a valid subject – and rightly so,” Andrea Corr commented. “Aside from the fact that I have made my career from it, I feel that it is a gift and a secret place that I can go for the rest of my life. I’d love to see as many children as possible being able to share in that wonderfully fulfilling experience.”

“The exciting new programme in Music in our primary schools enables all children to develop their musical abilities to the fullest and to experience the joy of both performing and responding to the music of others,” Mary Hanafin added. “This generous gift from the IRMA Trust will be much appreciated in providing many teachers with a basis to expand their knowledge of melodic instruments and to inspire their pupils with the love of music for which we in this country are renowned.”

“This is an important development in the history of Irish music education,” said Jessica Fuller of the IRMA Trust. “As a nation that prides itself on the richness of its musical heritage, we are obliged to ensure that our children are afforded the opportunity to actively engage in music and to be a part of that ongoing tradition. The programme provides a unique opportunity
to shape the future of music education for Irish children.”