Connacht Sentinel, April 7th 2009

Galway's Access Music Project has been described as a good news story for the city, and the work of the project's Board in continuing to preserve music values in Galway was also praised.

The comments were made by Galway West TD, Deputy Frank Fahey, who was speaking at a ceremony to commemorate the 10 th anniversary of the project.

The Access Music Project is a good news story. It is a success story for 10 years due to the enthusiasm and commitment of the people who put the project together, said Deputy Fahey. In particular he praised the work of project chairman Jim Higgins who, he said, continues to dedicate his time and energy for the betterment of participants.

 Deputy Fahey suggested that the people of Galway should work together to establish the city as a recognised centre of excellence for music. Galway should be looking to establish itself as a centre of excellence for music. If you look at Doolin, they have achieved international recognition for music and there is no reason why we can't achieve something similar for Galway. There is no doubt that given the talent and initiative in Galway it is something that we can achieve, Deputy Fahey said.

The Access Music Project (AMP) is a Community Employment Scheme established by the Galway City Partnership. It is aimed at long term unemployed people providing a training programme to those who have a basic knowledge, interest and ability in music. It currently operates from the St. Patrick's Band Hall in Galway and Mr Higgins said that the project needs to find its own home. Deputy Fahey said that the people of Galway, together with the politicians, should be aiming towards having a dedicated self-contained premises for the project-in effect a school of music for the city.

 The music training course, which is supported by FAS, operates annually from September, running for twelve months with twelve places available each year.  Demand for places is high with over fifty people applying in 2008. The course operates on a 19 ½ hour week for those taking part with full-time project coordinator Eilish O'Connor overseeing proceedings.

The project is aimed specifically at those people with an interest in music who could not otherwise avail of such training due to financial restraints. It is designed to develop skills in music amongst participants with rhythm, percussion, vocals and sound production and engineering attaining Level Five FETAC accreditation. Music theory is also covered in association with the Royal School of Music. At present there are seven experienced tutors teaching on the programme.

AMP aims to build confidence among participants and empower individuals to reach their full personal potential through the medium of music. Through a climate of interaction and exchanging of ideas the project promotes community and personal development away from music.

One of the projects graduates and current administrator, Marie Barrett, told those assembled in St.Patrick's Band Hall how she benefited from her time with the AMP. "The Access Music Project has enriched my life and given me greater confidence. It has also shown me how to adapt and seek new goals," she said.

Another of the course graduates, Bernie Shodeke, said how the project saved his life.  He now plays guitar and harmonica and is currently learning to play the piano and the ukulele.  I lived homeless in Galway for some time before taking up the course. It gave me a much needed sense of focus.  I have learned to read music and understand music and it has given me a sense of expression. This project saved my life, said Bernie. Both Marie and Brendan have availed of a second year on the programme open to participants over thirty five years of age.

So far, forty per cent of participants have gone on to further education in music. As well as furthering academic opportunities the project aims to increase the ability of participants to generate an income through music.  In total, over one hundred and fifty people have benefited from the course with many participants going on to teach locally and abroad.

AMP has recently won the 2009 Aontas Star Award for the Connacht region for work in adult education. Deputy Mayor Catherine Connolly said that the success of the AMP is the result of teamwork and cooperation amongst various bodies and the Aontas Star Award is proof of such efforts.

This ten year anniversary celebrates the achievements of the AMP. The programme continues to empower individuals to reach their potential in music. It is thanks to that teamwork and the cooperation of FAS, the VEC and the Galway City Partnership that they can achieve a national award for learner centred adult education, she said.