July 2008 NUI Galway Launches Traditional Music Diploma through Irish with Dr. Charlie Len

Muiris Ó Rócháin, Director of The Willie Clancy Festival, today launched NUI Galway's latest programme taught entirely through Irish, a Diploma of Arts in the Composition, Arrangement and Performance of Traditional Music*. The Diploma will be delivered by the University's Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge in conjunction with internationally acclaimed musician Dr. Charlie Lennon. Applications are now being accepted for the full-time, one-year course which will commence in September 2008 in state of the art recording studios at Stiúideo Cuan, An Spidéal, Co. na Gaillimhe. The number of students accepted on the programme is restricted to 15 to ensure the best academic training combined with hands-on practical experience using the latest music technologies. Students will study music theory and structure; the history and development of the traditional arts in Ireland; and the archiving, composition, arrangement, recording and performance of traditional music. Course participants will also produce and perform in an end of year concert under the guidance of a professional director. The programme is aimed at musicians, dancers and singers who would be interested in a career in music and the arts. The programme will be delivered through Irish, therefore a proficiency in the language is essential. Entry onto the programme is subject to an audition and interview process, where prospective students will display their knowledge of and interest in Irish traditional music. Speaking at the official launch of the Diploma in Stiúideo Cuan, An Spidéal, Co. na Gaillimhe, Muiris Ó Rocháin congratulated Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta and Stiúideo Cuan on developing such a unique and sought after programme. He said, "Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, NUI Galway, should be commended on its foresight in creating a course for artists that aims to develop them artistically as well as equipping them with skills in the arranging and staging of traditional music. The course, with its emphasis on performance, composition and staging will be a huge asset to the world of Irish traditional music." Marianne Ní Chinnéide, Academic Director of the new programme and Administrator of the Performing Arts Department (Riarthóir na dTaibh-Ealaíon), said, "This new diploma aims to provide graduates with the skills needed to pursue a career as a musician or as a traditional artist. The content is practical and offers the student high quality training from professionals already working in the field." Ms. Ní Chinnéide added, "Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge here at NUI Galway is going through such an inspiring phase of growth, development and innovation in the fields of drama, acting and music. It is our pleasure to collaborate with professionals within the Arts world and we look forward especially to working with Dr. Charlie Lennon." For more information contact Marianne Ní Chinnéide, Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, NUI Galway. Telephone 091 869103 or email: marianne.nichinneide@oegaillimh.ie *Dioplóma sna Dána (Cóiriú & Stáitsiú an Cheoil Thraidisiúnta) -ends-