Four accomplished young musicians receive Joan Trimble Bursaries

(Back L-R) Katie Bloomfield, Chloe Eagleson and Lucy Mills. (Front L-R) Emily Graham and Joanna McVey, daughter of the late Joan Trimble

 

Collegiate Grammar School GCSE students Lucy Mills, Chloe Eagleson, Emily Graham and Katie Bloomfield have received Joan Trimble Bursary Awards. The awards scheme, administered by the Fermanagh Trust, was set up in memory of the Enniskillen born musician and composer. As members of the WELB Senior Youth Orchestra the four talented musicians will use their bursaries to attend a summer school residential at the University of Limerick at the end of June. 

The 5 day summer school will provide outstanding rehearsal opportunities for the Senior Youth Orchestra. The girls will be giving several concerts including one in Limerick Cathedral. The Blas International Summer School of Irish traditional music coincides with the residential course meaning they will have the opportunity to participate and attend workshops, master classes and performances delivered by renowned performers and teachers of folk music, song and dance.

Described by their tutors as outstanding, hardworking performers with records of dedication, commitment and genuine enthusiasm for music, it is clear the girls have the potential to be excellent musical ambassadors for Fermanagh. Practicing and performing for up to 7 hours a day at the summer school with help them gain new skills and grow as musicians. These improved skills will not only help towards their studies but also benefit them in their membership of school ensembles and other bands. Once they arrive back in Fermanagh there will be a concert for parents and the public in St Michael’s College to showcase their work and improvement.

Established by her family, the Awards recognise Joan’s lifelong commitment to County Fermanagh and their purpose is to encourage the involvement of young people in creativity, the performing arts and Irish culture. Areas of support for individuals up to and including 25 years of age include: specialist education training sessions and courses; international cultural programmes; participation in master classes and summer schools. Through the encouragement of young people to participate in, be inspired by and enjoy a rich diversity of cultural activities, Joan’s vision of wider opportunity and access to the arts for new generations is being perpetuated.
 

For more information on the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards CLICK HERE