Our Music Programme
We in St. Kilian’s N.S. value music and indeed creativity very highly. Our recorder programme in First to Sixth Class continues this year with our teachers, supported by Yvonne Chilton and Mr. Mac Namara.
Why do we teach recorder in our school? We introduced recorders as an instrument in our school over 20 years ago. Since then children in our community have learned music theory, how to read music and most importantly an instrument. Many have studied Music for Leaving Cert and some have pursued it at 3rd level and beyond. The recorder is accepted as a most suitable instrument for primary schools because children have to learn all about the rudiments of music. These skills are then easily transferable to other instruments such as the tin whistle, guitar, piano, accordion etc.…
Music is the one subject aligned to literacy that can bring value to the whole of our lives. Increased music practice and an early start to music training are associated with better speech-sound analysis in the brain.
Young people presenting with self-esteem and anxiety issues is a growing problem in our school and in wider society. Playing music and in particular performing with others is a gift we can give our pupils and one that benefits the whole person.
Yvonne Chilton from The Chilton Music School and Accora Orchestra has recommenced supporting teachers in delivering our recorder programme. The school charges €2 per pupil per week or €4 per family to offset costs. This money is payable through Aladdin or directly to the class teacher.