Our Junior Cycle Music students had a fantastic opportunity to visit RTÉ Studio 1 to observe the RTÉ Concert Orchestra rehearsing for their upcoming concert at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Marty in the Evening.
The students were treated to a wonderful variety of music, giving them a fascinating insight into the work of a professional orchestra. They heard uileann piper Mark Redmond perform with the orchestra, as well as soprano Ava Dodd, and enjoyed hearing the distinctive sound of Irish traditional music being fused with orchestral music. The rehearsal also featured music from film, including James Bond and Ennio Morricone, alongside classical repertoire such as Caro mio ben. We even got a sneak peek of Marty Whelan himself on the drums ahead of the concert!
The visit provided a valuable connection to many of the students' Junior Cycle Music learning outcomes, particularly in relation to listening and responding, performing, exploring musical styles and traditions, and understanding how music is created and performed in a professional setting. Seeing the orchestra at work and hearing such a diverse range of repertoire will also provide valuable experience as students prepare for their Junior Cycle Music examinations. The students had the opportunity to chat with and interact with professional musicians, meet the leader of the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Mia Cooper, and learn more about the different roles within an orchestra. Some students were even able to get an up-close look at the percussion section!
A huge thank you to the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Marty Whelan for welcoming us into Studio 1 and giving our students such a memorable insight into professional music-making. We are very grateful to the Music department for accompanying the students and making this fantastic learning experience possible.