ACTIVITY4 - Page: 1 of 1

Congratulations to F.C.J. Bunclody Band members, Paula Gahan (Brid VI) of Park Clonegal, and Barry Leacy (Colm III) of "Ambleside", Coolnahorna, Enniscorthy, who were invited to play at the 'High Achievers Concert' in the National Concert Hall on February 9th. Paula (Alto Saxophone) and Barry (Clarinet) were selected because of the very high marks they achieved last year in the grade examinations of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music London.

Well done also to Barry on being invited to join the NYOI (National Youth Orchestra of Ireland) Under 18's, where he will play the bassoon.

We have a number of students who are working hard for the higher Theory examinations of the Associated Board. Up to now students have been unable to take the higher-grade exams because the Associated Board no longer recognises the Irish Leaving Certificate Music course as fulfilling theory requirements for their exams.

Last September auditions were held for the new Junior Band and we had a wonderful response. We now have 182 music students at F.C.J., 98 Seniors and 84 Juniors. The Juniors greatly surprised and delighted their parents on December 18th when they gave a short recital for them.

Gearóid Grant met all the 1st and 2nd year classes to find out who was interested in being auditioned for the new Band. He then tested each child and worked out with them which instrument would be most suitable for them. Past Band members who visit this site will know that not everyone's mouth is suitable for playing the trombone, for example ! Anyone can play any instrument but it will prove easier to master it if your embouchure (how your mouth fits the mouthpiece) is correct for that particular instrument. We hoped to have places available for about 50 students but are very happy to say that the Principal was happy for Gearoid to take on nearly 90 new students. More than 90% of the applicants were learning music for the first time. Any student who wishes is auditioned even if they are not especially musical. Our policy is one of inclusion and the desire to learn music and be enthusiastic about joining the Band is very important. A meeting of parents of prospective Band members was held to talk to them about what being a Band member would entail as regards to rehearsal times, music lessons, cost of instruments, etc. The monies raised by the Fund are very important at this time as we could purchase new school instruments and offer them to students who might find it very difficult to purchase one for themselves.

At the Annual Prize giving at the end of the 2001/2002 School year, Mr. Grant presented the Music Award (The Shane Power Trophy) to Kevin McEvoy of Ballingate, Carnew, Co. Wicklow, an outstanding Band member for the past six years. Kevin was a most enthusiastic and dependable member of the trombone section and gave unparalleled assistance when the band was "on the move" ! We wish him well as he goes to College to study Science.

In the State Leaving Certificate examinations, held in June, all the Band members and Music students achieved very good results. When the results were announced in August, 75% of students who took Music used them for their points for college entry.

All of the students who took the Grade examinations, of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music London , last March were successful ! We're delighted to say too that 20 students received a Distinction and another 35 were awarded a Merit.

In May last year the Band travelled to Dublin to play at The Blanchardstown Centre and we are glad to report that they raised over €1,100 for an Irish F.C.J. Sister who works with street children in the city of Maasin in the Philippines. They had a very enthusiastic and appreciative reception and really enjoyed playing for the large crowds.

As Band is an extra-curricular activity in Irish schools, each section has a one hour rehearsal per week, after school. When preparing for a concert or tour extra rehearsals are held at week-ends. Also, each student has a half hour music lesson each week.

Eileen Martin
School Secretary