Westmeath County Council is to sponsor a composer in residence programme for Moate Community School, to build on the achievements of the school’s choir in winning the recent All-Island School Choir competition.
The choir will work with the selected composer over a number of workshops, culminating in a public performance. CEO of Westmeath County Coucnil said the initiative is “a fitting symbol of the council’s appreciation of the choir’s achievements”.
Moate Community School choir were honoured with a civic reception by the council in County Buildings, Mullingar on Monday. The choir took first place in the grand final of the All-Island School Choir Competition, held in Titanic Belfast on Sunday November 16.
Speaking at the reception, cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council Paddy Hill said the singer had “brought great credit to the county, and are role models for the young people of the county”.
Choir director Laura Duignan paid tribute to the dedication of the choir members.
“The pupils sacrificed parts of their summer holidays, midterms, and weekends. Many of them are in senior cycle and their free time is limited. They are some of the most talented students I have had the pleasure of working with,” she said, also paying tribute to the school community, staff, and parents for their support.
Principal of Moate Community School Tom Lowry said the school had received congratulations and good wishes from across the country following the win.
“This has given us an example of what can be achieved with vision and determination. We made history by being the first community school ever to reach the finals and to win, and we hope others will follow in our footsteps,” he added.
