Name
The St. Agnes Intergenerational Orchestra, Dublin: Bringing Together Families through Making Music
Date & Time
Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 12:35 PM - 12:50 PM
Description
What began as an intervention in one of Dublin's large primary schools to all students, from various of backgrounds and economic situations, lthe opportunity to play stringed instruments, expanded to a multi generational spectrum of Music and Arts activities, the crown jewel of which is an orchestra involving students, parents, grandparents and friends traveling from all over the country to participate. The Orchestra, an outgrowth of the original project requiring every student in the school to learn an instrument, in order to boost self-esteem and academic progress, brought national and international attention to the school for its positive results in a variety of outcomes, including some unexpected, but welcome benefits. When parents were offered a short, exploratory course in string playing, so as to better understand the process and support their children, many parents wanted to continue playing with their children and an entirely new community was born, resulting in tours, high profile concerts and intergenerational summer camps. Soon these musicians were joined by other members of the community, those who had played years earlier, as well as those new to the instruments. A place was found for all. Currently, some participants travel considerable distances to play, spending the night in Dublin with family and friends. Post rehearsals, the adults often adjourn to a local gathering place for refreshments and more music making. Bringing together such a mix of ages, abilities and profiles demonstrates the unifying power of shared music-making, creating a loving and supportive community where nothing seems impossible. This inspiring program offers ideas to others seeking their own shared engagement and possibilities for building communities through music.
Location Name
511F
Full Address
Palais des Congres - Montréal Convention Centre
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
Session Type
Short Paper Presentation
Presenting Author(s)
Sandra Dackow