Slide into Music

13/05/2025

Good luck to all the young musicians doing RIAM music exams this week. A few of my students will be doing their exam this morning in Navan. I hope it’s a positive experience for all. 🤞

23/04/2025

01/11/2024

I was excited to make a presentation at the National gathering of Music Generation Music Educators in Galway this week. Wonderful to be part of this event and meet some amazing musicians.

28/08/2024

https://slideintomusic.my.canva.site/slide-into-music
Check out my new webpage

Having previously worked as an Engineer, I have now been teaching music in Primary schools and privately for over 10 years. I have been Garda Vetted, and I am a graduate of the Royal Irish Academy Community Music Teaching Diploma.

25/08/2024

23/06/2024

I had such a blast being part of the Music Generation Meath Roadshow group visiting several schools around the country. We had such a laugh and sing-along with some many amazing children and teachers. The good weather was an added bonus for most of the performances. A great way to finish the school year.

07/06/2024

https://www.facebook.com/100044500896676/posts/988022809357740/

CBOI IS NOW ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS:
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST at https://peaceproms.com/join-the-cboi/
CLOSING DATE: 5pm on 28th June 2024
START DATE: Our no-residential Summer workshop is from Mon 29th July to Friday 2nd Aug in Coláiste Chu Chulainn, Dundalk.

For more information, see www.peaceproms.com or email [email protected]

The CBOI provides exceptional performance opportunities for young people, coupled with orchestral training which is second to none. If you are a young musician between the ages of 13 and 24 years who is passionate about music, and wants to work with like-minded young people, now is your chance to become part of one of Ireland’s leading cultural initiatives.

CBOI members get the incredible opportunity to perform in our Peace Proms Arena Tour each Spring. This involves up to 15 concerts with audiences in excess of 60,000 people. Concerts take place in iconic arenas including the SSE Arena, Belfast; the Simmonscourt Arena, RDS, Dublin; Limerick University Sports Arena; and SETU Arena, Waterford Arena.

CBOI members get the opportunity to perform to professional concert-orchestra standard, and work with leading conductors and professional musician who coach members during workshops and perform along-side them during concerts.

REQUIREMENTS:

The CBOI accepts members from every county in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Applicants should be between 13 and 24years. Applications will also be considered from accomplished adults who would value the exceptional opportunities provided by the CBOI. Rehearsals take place on 3 Sundays per month from August to January, in Coláiste Chu Chulainn, Dundalk. Concerts take place at weekends from January to March.

Commitment is a key requirement. CBOI is in recess from mid-March until August to facilitate members taking school & college exams. Minimum standard required, full terms and conditions, provisional rehearsal and performance schedule, are available here and in our Terms and Conditions of Membership.

Applicants will be asked to submit a video audition. For your audition, you should prepare two contrasting pieces (preferably of contrasting tempo) at the appropriate level e.g. If you are auditioning for 1st Violins, you should play two Grade 8 pieces. If you are auditioning for 2nd flute, you should play two Grade 5 piece etc. If you are not offered a place this season, you are welcome to apply again next year.

START DATE: New applicants should be in a position to join from July 29th 2024.

CLOSING DATE: Friday 28th June 2024

QUERIES, EMAIL: [email protected]

11/05/2024

https://stringsmagazine.com/keeping-kids-motivated-to-play-music-requires-a-multifaceted-approach/

Motivating young musicians to stick to a practice schedule is always a challenge.

Students with intrinsic motivation describe playing the violin as “fun.” They play the violin because they simply enjoy it.

11/12/2023

Great to be part of this wonderful fundraising event last Saturday.

16/06/2023

From an article I read by Stacey Jarvis, Published Musicologist and Music Educator.

Today, I want to shed light on an important topic close to my heart— the hurdles children may encounter when learning a musical instrument. 🎻🎹🥁
Let's explore some of the difficulties our young musicians can face and how we can support them through their musical journey.
1️⃣ Patience and Persistence: Learning to play an instrument requires dedication and perseverance. Children may initially struggle to synchronise their fingers, read sheet music, or understand complex rhythms. As educators, parents, or mentors, it's crucial to encourage their resilience, reminding them that progress takes time and effort. Celebrate their small victories and help them embrace the process of learning.
2️⃣ Frustration and Self-Doubt: In the face of challenges, children may become frustrated or doubt their abilities. The fear of making mistakes can hinder their progress. As adults, we should foster a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as stepping stones towards improvement. By highlighting the importance of practice and providing constructive feedback, we can help them build confidence and resilience.
3️⃣ Time Management and Commitment: Learning an instrument demands consistent practice, which can be challenging for children who have multiple commitments. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social life can create time constraints. It's crucial for parents and teachers to guide children in prioritising their commitments, setting realistic practice goals, and creating a structured routine that accommodates their musical aspirations.
4️⃣ Performance Anxiety: Stepping onto the stage can be a nerve-wracking experience for young musicians. The pressure to perform flawlessly in front of an audience can lead to anxiety. Encourage children to participate in low-stress performances, such as recitals among friends and family, to gradually build their confidence. Teaching them relaxation techniques and reminding them that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process can help alleviate their anxiety.
5️⃣ Lack of Support or Resources: Not all children have access to adequate music education or instruments. Financial constraints or limited music programs in schools can hinder their progress. As a society, we must work towards providing equitable opportunities for all children to pursue their musical passions. Donating instruments, supporting music education initiatives, or advocating for inclusive music programs can make a profound impact on their musical journeys.
Let's rally together to support our young aspiring musicians through the ups and downs of learning a musical instrument. By fostering resilience, nurturing self-belief, and ensuring access to quality resources, we can empower them to overcome challenges and discover the transformative power of music. 🎶💪

03/03/2023

Attention please! 📣

We are thrilled to announce that the I.N.F. Brass Band is starting our new beginner adult class this Sunday! 🙌 We welcome everyone to come and join us.
🗓️ Date: Sunday, 05 March 2023
⏰ Time: 13:15
📍 Location: CWYS hall, Fair Green, Navan

Take this opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, and make some beautiful music together. Plus, who doesn't love a good Sunday brass session? 🤘

We can't wait to see you there. 🎶

If you, any of your family members or friends are interested in joining our brass band please get in contact and let us know.