Young Musical Ambassadors from Mayo to perform at EU Presidency Event

On Thursday 13th June, Gealóga, a traditional music ensemble formed as part of the Music Generation Mayo - Music Residency Programme will perform for international delegates attending the Education Committee Meeting in Castletown House, Leixlip, a Department of Education and Skills event organised as part of Ireland’s EU Presidency. The group of eleven young talented traditional musicians, aged 12-18 years, were selected via an audition process in January 2013 and have been progressing under the mentorship of their director, acclaimed Co. Mayo musician and performer, Emer Mayock. Nominated by the Mayo Music Education Partnership to represent their country on this international stage, Gealóga’s appearance marks the final event in Music Generation’s performance programme for the Department of Education & Skills EU Presidency events.

Hailing from throughout Co. Mayo, Gealóga, which translates as ‘bright youth’, includes the following musicians; Kate Heneghan, Orla Mannion, Donal Parksinson, Patrick Boyle, Marianna Tiernan, Ellen Murphy, Alan Judge, Catherine Lambe, Grace McDonnell, Niamh Mulhern and Seán McGreal. Over the past few months the ensemble has been meeting regularly to share and source material, collaborate as fellow musicians, examine the history of the ensemble in traditional music, while preparing and rehearsing for the performances which will mark the culmination of the Music Generation Mayo - Music Residency in July 2013.

An exceptionally accomplished young ensemble, members of Gealóga have successfully competed and received top prizes in the Connaught and national Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann competitions. They have graced many prestigious performance stages as individual musicians and in groups, having been taught and influenced in their musical development by the cream of Irish traditional musicians both in Co. Mayo and neighbouring counties. “Each individual member is an accomplished musician in their own right” noted Ensemble Director, Emer Mayock, “now as part of the ensemble they bring their own musical imagination and energy to create a dynamic and vibrant sound.” Gealóga will also perform at the Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar on Friday July 12th and the Ballina Arts Centre on Saturday July 13th.

Roaleen Molloy, National Director of Music Generation said “Music Generation is delighted to have had the opportunity to work with the Department of Education and Skills, Local Music Education Partnerships and many young musicians throughout the country on this ambitious performance programme to mark Ireland’s Presidency of the EU. We are very proud of our superb young musicians who have proved fine ambassadors on this international platform”.

For further information please contact Music Generation, c/o Music Network, The Coach House, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2. 01 6719945 / info@musicgeneration.ie / www.musicgeneration.ie

Notes to editors: Music Generation is Ireland’s National Music Education Programme, initiated by Music Network and funded by U2 and The Ireland Funds, together with a range of local partners. Music Generation helps children and young people to access music education in their local area. Music Generation is currently established in Carlow, Cork City, Laois, Limerick City, Louth, Mayo, Offaly/Westmeath, Sligo and Wicklow and works with Music Education Partnerships in each of these areas. Music Generation also works closely with the Department of Education and Skills who have committed to co-fund the programme with local Music Education Partnerships from July 2014. Visit www.musicgeneration.ie for further information.