As a result of the success of ‘Sing Out Galvone’, further funding has been obtained from the J.P MacManus Foundation and Limerick Regeneration to support an orchestral programme in Galvone.

This will build directly on the success of the ‘Sing Out’ programme, combining singing and composition activities with regular violin lessons. ‘Sing Out with Strings’ aims to provide instrumental tuition for every child in the school beginning in September 2009. ICO violinist and qualified Suzuki Violin Teacher, Lisa Grosman will oversee this phase of the project. By developing a strings programme that is specific to Limerick Regeneration, she will work with pupils and teachers to provide violin tuition. As the programme grows, this will eventually include every child in the school and will form the basis for a Youth Orchestra in the Southill area, mentored by the professional musicians of the Irish Chamber Orchestra.

In disadvantaged areas of Limerick, children face significant social and economic challenges, which restrict their ability to reach their full potential. It has been consistently proven that engagement with the arts helps children to develop personally and socially. England’s national singing programme, ‘Sing Up’ reports;

“Children receiving additional classroom music lessons showed increased social cohesion within class, greater self-reliance, better social adjustment, and more positive attitudes in general. These effects were particularly marked in low-ability, disaffected pupils.” (http://www.singup.org/media/statistics/)

By working with Limerick Regeneration, the ICO aims to help all children to play a positive role in their community and to reach their full potential as individuals. ‘Sing Out with Strings’ enables the development of essential life skills in listening and responding, concentration, teamwork and communication, as well as greater confidence and the sheer enjoyment that comes from creativity and performance.