Aspiro is the only dedicated youth arts organisation in Ireland committed to achieving a new vision for children and young people to engage in choral music by;
- Proudly fostering the belief in nurturing the innate musical ability and artistry inherent within all children and young people hence the uniqueness that its members are not auditioned
- Engaging its members in diverse choral music programmes of the highest artistic quality along a progressive structure from elementary to advanced levels
- Continuing to deliver artistic excellence amid evolving membership
Aspiro’s teaching philosophy is based on the principle of artistry being nourished at a level of excellence from day one. A combined approach to learning is central in ensuring that all members begin with active music making, in developing the skills and understanding necessary to meet the musical and vocal challenges inherent in the repertoire, all of which invites the satisfaction of a holistic, musical experience.
Aspiro engages professional musicians for all public performances and offers choral workshops to schools and community groups as part of its outreach programme.
Aspiro also recognises the importance of contributing to Irish choral repertoire. In 2006 Aspiro commissioned Ian Wilson to set ‘An tOileán’ (a poem on the leaving certificate syllabus) by Carlow poet Deirdre Brennan to music and Sue Furlong was commissioned to set ‘Our Deepest Fear’ (a poem by Marianne Williamson used by Nelson Mandela during his inauguration speech) to music both of which were premiered at Aspiro’s 10th anniversary concert in 2007. Live recordings of both pieces are available to purchase by contacting [email protected].
In September 2010 Aspiro premiered their latest commission ‘What Did You See‘ by Elaine Agnew with text by Sean Hardie and the members of Aspiro Youth Ensemble and movement by Bryan Burroughs.
Aspiro recognises the value of cross art-form collaboration and has produced extraordinary performances incorporating visual art and drama.
Aspiro rehearsals take place weekly in Éire Óg Clubhouse, Teach Asca, O’Brien Road, Carlow.
