Dundalk School of Music

Atmosphere

Dundalk School of Music has recently relocated to a new State of The Art premises in the Blackthorn Business Park on the Coes Road, Dundalk.

2009 was a defining year for Patricia Duffy, when she decided to establish the school, having spent many years teaching in her own home.  Two years on and as a result of the ongoing success of the school, Patricia investigated the possibility of moving into a purpose built facility and the new premises were identified.  The school opened its doors in September of last year and the impact was immediately felt.

 There is a wonderful atmosphere in the building that can only foster any latent talent hidden within its students.  As you pass through the double doors you are met with the faint rhythmic thump and rattle of bass and snare drums coming from behind the soundproofed walls.  Walk further in and the tinkle of notes can just be heard from a piano keyboard.  Violin notes are next and you can almost visualize a bow being pulled across strings behind the closed doors.  Somebody is singing a little further down on the left, but again it’s faint.  Each instrument being played is audible, just, but is identifiable from every other in this quiet cacophony.  This is down to the design and layout of the tuition rooms.  Each is soundproofed and isolated from the large performance area that dominates the length of the building.   Each room is also fitted with a large double glazed window.  As well as containing the sound, they also serve the dual purpose of allowing observation of what’s going on, inadvertently getting students used to being observed when playing.  The obvious benefit of this is less anxiety from the musicians if they have to perform in front of others in years to come.

 

Endorsements

It’s this attention to detail that has set Dundalk School of Music apart and that has attracted the attention of well known music stalwarts.  Jim Corr (The Corrs), Liam Reilly (Bagatelle), John Sheehan (The Dubliners), Sharon Treacy-Dunne (Founding Member of the Cross Border Orchestra), Gerry (Fiddle) O’Connor and Dr. Eibhlis Farrell of DKIT have all endorsed the school and participated in its events.

Tutors 

The school has attracted fine exponents of many musical instruments and now boasts upwards of 10 music teachers who tutor in Vocals, Woodwind, Strings, Percussion and everything in between.

All genres of music are also taught; from Classical right through to Rock ‘n’ Roll, Traditional and the Blues. All of the teachers are committed to the development and growth of their students as artists and individuals. Each has obtained clearance from the Garda Central Vetting Unit.  The school can accommodate beginners and accomplished musicians, children and adults.

Instruments

The school is very well equipped too, with a full compliment of musical instruments available for students use.  There are a number of Roland and Yamaha pianos, throughout the school, as well as Electronic drum kits, guitars, violins and woodwind instruments.

 

Outreach, Exams & Activities

Dundalk School of Music also run a successful outreach programme in local schools and see themselves as playing a key role, acting as a cultural catalyst within the community.  The school can cater for those preparing for grade examinations (R.I.A.M. and A.B.R.S.M.)  In addition, can prepare students for Junior and Leaving Certificate State examinations.

There is no lack of opportunity for pupils to get involved in a wide range of extra-curricular musical activities which give students ample scope for public performance. These include frequent concerts and recitals, community performances, Arts Festivals and events, and field trips.

Personally Speaking – Editors Note

I’m going to make a bold statement.  If you have a child, send him or her to music lessons.  From a very early age I learned various instruments.  With a little talent and a lot of practice, I became proficient enough to win a few national titles and that grounding in music has stayed with me right through to today.  As a direct result of music, I have been afforded the opportunity to travel and play, I have been welcomed in music venues and bars all over the world and have met so many interesting people, with whom, mostly I still stay in regular contact.  The music connects.  Forever.  Universally.

Unlike some other talents, sporting or otherwise, a musical instrument is something you can entertain with throughout your life and something that you can get better at even into old age.  Try it once.  If you or your children like it, try it again.  It’s simply a wonderful, fulfilling thing to be able to play an instrument.

If any this appeals to you, contact Patricia at the Dundalk School of Music.  
Visit www.dundalkschoolofmusic.com for more information 
or telephone 042 - 9330044 (Landline) 085-7213077(Mobile)

  If you would like your business to appear here just drop us an email at locohappenings@yahoo.com or call us at 087-2557754