Music Rich Schools established by Music Generation Laois in 2016 targets children and young people in DEIS schools, to provide access to performance music education at reduced costs. 

For 2022, the Music Rich schools programme is operating in Mountmellick Girls School - weekly tin whistle classes; Mountmellick Boy's School - weekly bodhran classes; and in Scoil Bhride Knockmay in Portlaoise - ukulele classes; with each school receiving a visit from the Bandwagon, MG Laois's Mobile Music vehicle.

Mountmellick GNS also received a visit from Franklin Musicians (from Tennessee in the US), as part of the town twinning project, in June 2022; and all 3 schools took part in end of term summer performances. 

Providing access to performance music education programmes in DEIS schools, ensures that children who do not have family supports or means to enable them to participate in music, have free-of-charge access in their local school. This programme aims to increase confidence in young musicians, to provide equal opportunity, by giving access to workshops with experienced musicians, and quality musical instruments.

Music Rich School will commence a new programme in Scoil Bhride Mountrath in September 2022. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.