Michael will be working with the Directors of the orchestra John Carty and Aidan Shannon who along with Lorraine Sweeney were recently appointed to lead the development of the new music project, which will be based in Drumshanbo.

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Leitrim, and the northwest generally, is regarded and recognised for its traditional music going back many generations, and the ongoing work of individual musicians, music teachers, festivals and organisations has given rise to a great number of exciting and ambitious young musicians ready to carry that tradition forward into the future.

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Young people in the region have several opportunities to learn traditional music through a variety of excellent music education providers. In Leitrim this is also supported by active Comhaltas branches in Ballinamore, Drumsna, Drumshanbo and Glenfarne promoting traditional music through regular classes and activities. Drumshanbo also plays host to the award winning and internationally renowned Joe Mooney Summer School which presents a packed programme of workshops, recitals, ceilithe, lectures and music events each year.

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While the genre is well served in many ways in terms of learning, Music Generation Leitrim Youth Trad Orchestra provides the opportunity for young musicians to further develop, compose, experiment and innovate. The aim of the Orchestra is to add to what already exists by establishing a framework for a large ensemble of young traditional musicians to play and learn together, to develop new compositions, and to generate exciting new performance opportunities for young people.

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As a member of Music Generation Leitrim Youth Trad Orchestra, young musicians will take part in two 12 week terms of workshops, perform in Leitrim and around Ireland, and get to visit and take part in joint events and activities with other orchestras and music projects around the country.

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If you are a young traditional musician aged between 13 and 17 years and can play to a good standard, we want to hear from you. We’re looking for up to 60 young musicians from Leitrim and the surrounding counties to become part of this exciting new music project.

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The first meeting for new members will be in Drumshanbo Vocational School (N41 D623) on Monday 2nd March from 6.30pm to 8pm. Those interested in joining can apply to become a member HERE.

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For further information contact John on 086 835 0901 or Aidan on 086 0526459.

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