Music

Star of the Sea is home to the ‘Strings’ programme since 2011. Originally based on the violin programme piloted in Scoil Úna Naofa by Sr. Bernadette Sweeney, the Strings project was enabled through extraordinary fundraising efforts by Star parents past and present. The pupils use our two double basses, two cellos, violas and violins of many sizes to develop musical skills on a stringed instrument in the school’s purpose-built music room. From junior infants up until sixth class, the pupils receive musical instruction each week.

At the end of terms one and three, the boys in each class perform as a string ensemble for invited guests.

A highlight for the boys each year is the visit of Neil Dowling, who gives a ‘drum nature’ workshop to each class. This is a very hand-on experience during which the boys play a wide variety of percussion instruments and drums.

The Christmas Carol service is another highlight of the school year. Each Christmas, the Star Boys form a wonderful choir and recite carols at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea church.