The Burren Children's Choir recently represented Clare at the National 1916 Commemoration Events when they sang in ‘A Nation’s Voice ’- with 1000 singers from all over the country performing with the National Symphony Orchestra. They have performed with Julie Feeney, The Three Irish Tenors and The Young Napperville Singers, as well as Music Generation events in Glór, and the Mansion House. Last ye
ar they performed in the world premiere of ‘Flying Things’, a choral suite for children by MIC Composer in residence, Anne-Marie O’Farrell. It was standing room only and we all had a great night. New members are very welcome! What the children say:
‘Singing makes me happy’ Daniel, age 10
‘It was such an exciting day. It was a great honour and a thrill to sing for the President and the big crowds in Collins Barracks. I will never forget it.’ Jennifer, age 11, talks about performing ‘A Nation’s Voice on Easter Sunday.
‘I love singing in the children’s choir because it’s fun and I love singing in a group. At our concert everyone kept on smiling!’ Rosie, age 11. Why join the choir? We at the Burren Children’s Choir believe that the human voice is the most beautiful instrument of all, each child’s voice is a unique expression of their personality. We create a happy supportive environment where each child learns to be comfortable, confident and competent at using their voice to express themselves. Children learn to work as a team to blend their voices to make wonderful music together. Children learn vocal technique and performing skills and sing a wide variety of songs. They learn to read music, sing in harmony and sight sing through movement and games. Research has shown that music education involving active singing participation develops musical skills and also enhances numerical, social and linguistic skills. Who leads the Choir? Our musical director is Máiréad Ní Chondúin, who leads the Music Generation Singing Programme and lectures in Music Education in Mary Immaculate College in Limerick. We are delighted to welcome Theresa Leahy on board to rehearse with us this September. Like Máiréad, she has sung with the RTE Philharmonic Choir, and has extensive choral, musical theatre and drama experience with children. When does the choir meet? This year we are expanding! We will have three groups this September:
2.30 - 3.15 Singingland 5-6 year olds
3.15 - 4.15 Junior Choir 7-12 year olds
€3 per rehearsal, first rehearsal free. We rehearse on Wednesdays in Teach Ceoil, Ennistymon. How do I confirm a place for my child? For more information or to register please call Máiréad (086 8116562) or Theresa (086 8055425)
