Josh Bengall
Josh began his musical journey at the age of 8, playing the cornet with his village brass band using a borrowed instrument. At age 10, he started formal trumpet lessons through Music Generation Mayo, continuing with a trumpet borrowed from the library under their nstrument loan scheme.
Three years ago, he purchased a used, student model trumpet which he has used for his junior and leaving cert recitals. Josh is currently the principal trumpet (1st trumpet) in both the Mayo Youth Orchestra and the Foxford Brass and Reed Band. He has attended weekly rehearsals and performed regularly with both groups for the past seven years, taking part in major events such as St. Patrick’s Day parades and an orchestra performance at the National Concert Hall. He has also participated in composition, music technology, and performance workshops with
Music Generation Mayo. This summer, he will play principal trumpet for the Foxford Band at the South of Ireland Band Championships, and will return to both the Sligo Jazz Summer School and the Fermanagh Brass Band Summer School.
Josh successfully auditioned for Cork school of music and is hoping to complete a bachelor of music degree with them after his leaving cert.
Josh plans to use this bursary to purchase a more suitable, professional-level trumpet. This upgrade will be essential for supporting his musical development and enabling him to pursue more advanced studies.
Jimmy Maguire
Jimmy's journey with the piano began four years ago, sparked by a forgotten 61-key keyboard and a captivating video game melody. With no formal training, he taught himself that first song by ear, and a new passion was ignited. This initial spark led him to explore more challenging pieces, pushing the boundaries of what he thought he could achieve.
While he faced setbacks and moments of frustration, the pull of the piano was undeniable. Returning with a full sized keyboard, his dedication deepened and he began experimenting with more challenging music. Playing transformed from a hobby into a profound form of self-expression.
Today, Jimmy not only arranges music he loves, but also composes original pieces, pouring his thoughts and emotions into every note. This journey, which began with a dusty keyboard, is a lifelong exploration of persistence, passion, and creativity—and he knows he's still just getting started.
Jimmy works with music generation louth, writing for projects and playing along in various ensembles.
Jimmy plans to use this Bursary to access music lessons to further his piano playing into a life long musical journey.
