Musician Jason McAuley receives Joan Trimble Bursary Award

Talented trumpet player Jason McAuley has received a Joan Trimble Bursary Award. The St Michael’s College student will use his bursary to take part in courses with the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland and the Ulster Youth Orchestra.

As a member of these prestigious courses last year Jason was able to improve his playing by getting necessary guidance by professionals such as the New York Philharmonic who he had master classes with along with other renowned musicians. This year with new repertoire and conductors Jason will be able to improve his playing, ensemble, stage presence and performance all of which will be invaluable as he hopes to pursue music and study trumpet at the third level.

Tutors have commended Jason’s talent and commitment adding that he is a fantastic representative for the county and a tremendous role model for many other young people in his schools and various regional orchestras and bands he plays in.

Joanna McVey, daughter of the late Joan Trimble said “Jason was the first bursary recipient last year following our relaunch of the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards and we are delighted to support him once again. As a member of these courses previously Jason was able to improve his performance and avail of many opportunities and we commend Jason for wanting to further that progression.”

The Joan Trimble Bursary Awards, established by her family and administered by the Fermanagh Trust, were set up in memory of the Enniskillen born musician and composer. 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.

Jason commented “I am incredibly grateful to have been awarded this Joan Trimble Bursary as it will allow me to avail of these courses yet again and gain further experience with renowned orchestras which will open up a number of opportunities. It’s fantastic that such a scheme exists to support aspiring young musicians.”

For more information on the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards CLICK HERE. The next closing date for applications is 1st March 2016.