Music and the Mind, a new podcast hosted by musician Shane Mitchell (of folk band Dervish) and psychologist Shane Martin will be launched by Minister Catherine Martin at the First Fortnight Festival this Sunday, January 7.

Mitchell and Shane Martin will be joined by guests Dr Jolanta Burke, Dr Hilary Moss and John McLoughlin, for a panel discussion at the launch, to explore the connection between music and wellbeing.

Dr Jolanta Burke is a Chartered Psychologist and a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Positive Health Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, who specialises in Positive Psychology.

Dr Hilary Moss is Associate Professor in Music Therapy at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at University of Limerick, with over 25 years experience as a Music Therapist.

Guitarist John McLoughlin holds a masters in Music Therapy and lectures on Guitar skills. He has clinical experience in the areas of special education with children with additional needs, dementia care, adolescent mental health and children with autism.

He’s also performed with the likes of Gilbert O'Sullivan, Sinéad O'Connor, Damien Dempsey, Frances Black and many more.

Delighted that our exciting project is being launched on Sunday at 4pm in @smockalley as part of @firstfortnight festival. Engaging discussion about the powerful positive effects of music with a wonderful panel & some music from our star guest @bridin_music Don’t miss it! pic.twitter.com/u2WyLgeMMN

— Shane Martin (@moodwatchers) January 4, 2024

“As a musician and a former music teacher, I have personal experience and appreciation of the power of music as a source of health and wellbeing, “said Minister Catherine Martin TD.

“This new podcast series is to be welcomed as it will undoubtedly shed more light on the connection between music and wellbeing.”

“Music is something that we are all touched by. It transcends cultures,” added Shane Martin. “It connects people deeply to themselves, others and their world.

“I am looking forward to discussing the evidence of the therapeutic benefits of music and learning about the practical experiences of musicians reaping these benefits.”

The panel discussion which will be moderated by music producer Dave Heffernan, takes place on Sunday 7 January 2024 at 4pm in Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin, as part of the First Fortnight Festival.

Tickets can be found via this link.