There were ‘big smiles’ on the faces of pupils at an Ennis primary school this morning as it took in more than 100 musical instruments donated by the public.
The annual appeal, which has been running since 2015, saw the instruments donated to Scoil Chríost Rí.
Banjos, fiddles, guitars, drums and much more were on show in Scoil Chríost Rí this morning as it welcomed its latest donation of instruments.
The initiative has been running since 2015 but had been curbed for the last number of years due to the pandemic.
It allows all pupils in the school from second class and above to get the opportunity to play an instrument.
This project is supported by the Ennis Phoenix Twinning Board, with the aim to rehome as many instruments as possible.
It’s the brainchild of Ennis Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard, who says it’s hugely important to ensure extra curricular activities are available for the students.
It wasn’t until mid-October that this year’s incoming cohort got to begin their musical journeys due to pandemic restrictions.
These Scoil Chríost Rí pupils say they really look forward to being able to pick up their instruments every day in the classroom.
There are more than 20 nationalities in the Cloughleigh school, with the musical opportunity the initiative provides being described as a ‘universal language’ for the pupils.
Karen Vaughan has led the charge of ensuring each student can progress their musical skills at the school.
She says it’s been heartening to see the appeal going from strength to strength each year.
The initiative is also being branched out to Ennis Community College and Gaelcholáiste an Chláir in September.
The school’s Deputy Principal, Yvonne Walsh, says they’re looking forward to being able to facilitate Scoil Chríost Rí students in progressing their musical talents as they get older.
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