Mayo schools celebrate Creative Clusters music project

THREE Mayo primary schools - Behy NS, Boniconlon NS and Cooneal NS - celebrated the successful conclusion of their two-year Creative Clusters traditional music project with a lively and heartfelt trad music session at the Great National Hotel, Ballina.

The event marked the culmination of a powerful collaboration under the Department of Education’s Creative Clusters initiative, part of the Creative Youth Plan 2023–2027, which supports schools in exploring creative approaches to learning.

Over the course of two years, the three schools worked together to promote and encourage traditional music, with a shared belief that music is for everyone.

The project has led to a huge expansion in both the number and variety of instruments being played, with pupils now confidently exploring everything from fiddles, flutes and harps to concertinas, accordions and bodhráns and everything in between.

The celebration attracted significant attention, with Midwest Radio covering the event. Adding to the excitement on the day was the presence of well-known RTÉ journalist Teresa Mannion and the News2Day crew, whose coverage created a real buzz among students and staff alike.

Their attendance brought a sense of occasion and recognition to the event, with pupils thrilled to share their musical journey on a national platform.

Special guests included Minister Dara Calleary, Michael McKenzie, director of Mayo Education Centre, and Katie Sweeney, national director for the Integration of the Arts in Education.

Each praised the project for its innovation, inclusivity and positive impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

The event featured performances from each of the three schools, culminating in a joint performance of 'Dreams' by The Cranberries, a powerful and moving finale that showcased the unity and musical growth of all students involved.

The success of the day was made possible through the support of many individuals and groups. Heartfelt thanks were extended to teachers and school staff, project facilitator Cas McCarthy, project coordinator Hazel O’Donnell, and music tutors Mark O’Donnell and Peter Neary, whose passion and dedication were central to the project’s success.

Appreciation was also extended to the hotel staff, sound, lighting, photography and videography experts Ray Forde, Shane Ruane and Bart Rybacka and especially to the parents, families and students who made the journey so memorable.

Speaking at the event, a school spokesperson noted: "This project has brought our schools together in the most meaningful way - through creativity, culture and community. It’s been a joyful and transformative experience for our pupils, and we’re incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved."

The Creative Clusters project has left a lasting legacy in the schools involved, with traditional music now deeply embedded in school life and pupils empowered to continue their musical journeys well into the future.