This multidisciplinary case study documents the inclusive impact of peerassisted learning (PAL) of classical music in primary school classrooms of County Louth, focusing on whole class ensemble teaching in the string projects of ‘Music Generation Louth’ in a time when Covid-19 pandemic restrictionslimited PAL. Access to classical music education, particularly classical string instruments in Ireland, has traditionally been tilted towards those with socio-economic and cultural advantages; hence, children and young adults in disadvantaged and marginalised communities have suffered the greatest levels of exclusion from classical music education. Recent policy changes in practice in the Irish education system such as the provision of free or affordable music education delivered in the classroom by the ‘Music Generation’ organisation would point to a growing openness in Irish society from an historic background of hegemonic policies and approaches. Additionally, research indicates positive changes in education experience for those with access to music. It is clear that facilitating the development of musical abilities across different communities has proven and still proves to be a successful method of combating prejudice among young people [4].

Author: Annemarie McGahon

Published in: Ireland International Conference on Education (IICE-2023)

• Date of Conference: 24-26 October, 2023
• DOI: 10.20533/IICE.2023.10.0024
• ISBN: 978-1-913572-68-6
• Conference Location: Dún Laoghaire, Ireland