A community songwriting project bringing people together in Kilkenny
The project is being facillitated by acclaimed songwriter Luan Parle
Songs of Our Place is a community songwriting and performance project, fully funded by the Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny, designed to bring together members of the Kilkenny community to explore their stories, voices, and creative expression through original songs composed by participants with the guidance of acclaimed singer-songwriter Luan Parle.
Luan is hosting a series of community-based workshops that bring together a wide range of schools and groups from across County Kilkenny.
Participants include five primary schools, five secondary schools, the Drum Youth Centre, the South Kilkenny History Group and Age Friendly Kilkenny. Together, these groups are creating a collection of original songs that reflect the people, places, stories, and spirit of their community. The songs celebrate the diverse voices, experiences, and cultural richness of Kilkenny.
Fully funded by The Watergate Theatre, the project aims to make songwriting accessible to everyone, regardless of musical background or ability. The project promotes the belief that music brings people together by creating connections that support well-being and celebrate our shared human experience. It also offers valuable creative learning opportunities for students by encouraging collaboration through self-expression and a deepening engagement with music.
Songs of our Place inspires intergenerational learning by involving schools, youth groups, local history organisations, and age-friendly associations, promoting a shared sense of community through songwriting in a fun, inclusive and creative environment.