Calling Musicians in Westmeath
Electric pop band The Dirty Epics have joined four year-olds Thomas Maher and Lughán Ó Riagáin for an impromptu musical performance to call on musicians in Westmeath to take part in love:live music, Ireland’s National Music Day on June 21.
The musicians called on music lovers, music promoters and venue managers in Westmeath to arrange a free live music event. love:live music, which saw an estimated 45,000 take part in free live music events across the country in 2012, is coordinated by Music Network and funded by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
“Ireland is known throughout the world for our wealth of musicians and musical heritage and this is something we should celebrate. Iwould like to encourage everyone to take part in our National Music Day in some way - either by organising an event or coming out on the day to join in thecelebrations” commented Jimmy Deenihan T.D., Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
Last year love:live music saw over 300 free live music events organised with an impressive range of shows in schools, churches, libraries, pubs, outdoors and even on the train. Events in 2012 ranged from Scottish Pipes and Irish harps at Lochtar na Cua Standing Stones in Waterville, to Samba percussion performances, to White Collar Boy performing a full live set on the Heuston Dublin to Waterford train for commuters. Organisers are hoping that this year’s event will be another success and are encouraging participants to be imaginative with their choice of venue.
“love:live music is very different to a regular music festival. It’s open to anyone (whether amateur or professional musicians) who wants to perform and showcases all styles of musical talent in really fun and imaginative spaces. It aims to popularise music making for the young and not so young from all social backgrounds” -commented Sharon Rollston, Music Network CEO.
“There are no restrictions and we hope that music events of all kinds will be included - from rock & pop to traditional and jazz, from choral and classical to rhythmn and blues - whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-time event organiser. Be imaginative with your event and venue and rope in friends, family and the local community to help” she continued.