History

The Access Music Project (AMP) was set up in 1999 as an initiative of the Galway City Partnership, in response to a perceived need for music training in Galway city and county. The emphasis was on creating developmental and training opportunities for the unemployed musician.

The Access Music Project (AMP) continues as a special training programme designed for people who have a basic knowledge, interest and ability in music and who wish to access further training and development in music and the arts.

Participant's previous background and educational qualifications vary from the long term unemployed, early school leavers to those with second level education who still find themselves unemployed. AMP's target group are drawn from those who because of social exclusion and a lack of economic resources, cannot avail of existing training opportunities in music and arts education programmes, and who would be likely, without intervention, to remain unemployed for the foreseeable future.

The project is designed to build confidences and empower individuals to reach their full personal and musical potential. At the end of the project participants will have benefited from accreditation in a number of core (compulsory) modules:

e.g. Music Theory, Rhythm & Percussion Skills, Vocal Skills, Sound Engineering, Piano/Keyboard Skills, and Communications

see Course Outline...

The further progression of participants has been hugely successful, incorporating 3rd level, self-employment withing the industry, as well as teaching/support within the local community.

In line with the strategic plan of the Galway City Development Board, AMP has championed the cause of its target group in order to ensure that people can participate in, and have full access to artistic and cultural pursuits that benifit themselves and the community at large. Further to this the Access Music Project continues to highlight the need for a 3rd level School of Music in Galway.

To date the project has supported almost 150 participants, who have gone on to achieve what was in many cases beyond their initial expectations. Thus, while the project is primarily focused on music training, the Access Music Project has a much broader value to the community at large, coupled with a holistic approach to its work.

See our mission statement...