Bursaries announced for six Donegal marching bands

It has been announced today that six marching bands in Donegal will receive a grant through the Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary Scheme 2025.

The six bursary recipients are Buionn Ceoil Mullachduff (Mullaghduff Band) - €2,000; Comhaltas Craobh Fhanada - €2,000; Manorcunningham Pipe Band - €2,000; Banna Piob Arainn Mhor (Arranmore Pipe Band) - €1,000; St Carthas Pipe Band, Kilcar - €1,000 and St Catherine's Accordion Band, Killybegs - €1,000.

The Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary scheme provides a small cash grant to support music education and music initiatives to support and cultivate the talent of young musicians. The organisations, groups and individuals involved provide year-round non-mainstream access to a variety of local music education experiences for young people and children.

The announcement was made by Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee TD. Donegal TD Pat the Cope Gallagher welcomed the announcement.

“It is so important that our young people can access opportunities which allow them to express themselves, nurture their creativity and skills and support their wellbeing and ability to make friends,” he said. “This is why I am delighted to offer this bursary which will help nurture our talented young musicians at a local level and support many wonderful music initiatives across the country.

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“I want to acknowledge the commitment of the organisations and the many volunteers who give their time and skills to work with young musicians, providing them with valuable opportunities to explore their full potential.”