We all know that talking about mental health is important, but sometimes it can feel easier said than done, especially when it comes to young people. Music, stories and song help us to communicate and come alive as people and as a community. Our good friend Damien Dempsey helps bring people together all over the world through his spirit, energy and music. He has inspired students throughout Ireland to take part in our “Songs and Stories” project.
Damo is now looking forward to the discuss the project with Ms. Veronica Morley, Head of the Creative Schools Committee at Davitt College Castlebar and TY English Mr. Paul Ryan. A number of their TY students, who are taking part in the “Conversation Starters” pilot program, will meet and sing with the “Irish Lion” ahead of his TF Royal Show on February 21st in Castlebar.
Conversation Starters – Breaking the silence
The program is the brainchild of Paul Ryan and it offers a valuable platform to stimulate discussions about mental wellbeing, something that can be a real benefit to many young people who might otherwise struggle to express themselves.
Damo is a great advocate for the power of conversation, music and song to help connect people and communities on multiple levels.
Davitt College teachers, Ms. Veronica Morley and Mr. Paul Ryan have spent much of this academic year helping their TY students to engage with “Conversation Starters” program. The project offers a chance to break free from that digital bubble and engage in a collaborative, musical and social environment. Getting out and interacting with others is a key step towards healthy friendships and wellbeing.
Damo’s Lyrics: A Powerful Connection:
The program ties in directly with the powerful messages in Damo’s music, particularly songs like “It’s All Good” and “Negative Vibes” .These songs can resonate deeply with people in a world where music without depth abounds! Damo’s lyrics provide a relatable and authentic voice, offering a sense of hope and resilience in a challenging world.
The Power of Shared Experience
After many weeks of classroom based discussion, singing and workshops, the TY students in Davitt’s College are really looking forward his “Conversation Starters” group to meet, singing with and watch one of Ireland’s greatest performers bring his music to life on the 21st of February.
It’ll be an opportunity for students to experience a gig, to be part of the crowd, part of something bigger than themselves. This collective experience allows them to absorb positive vibes and realize they’re not alone in facing negative thoughts. It reinforces the message that these feelings are normal, and that there are healthy ways to cope. Whether it’s singing along to a favorite song or taking a walk in the park, the important thing is to take action. These feelings won’t simply disappear on their own.
Together we can “Sing All Our Cares Away”!
Damo is really excited to meet the students and teacher and become involved in another exciting initiative to help young people connect through music, Songs and Stories
Well done to staff and students of Davitt College for bringing “Conversation Starters” to a wider audience and we look forward to promoting the project to a wider audience.
Sometimes a good songs gives us the freedom to “Sing All Our Cares Away”! Now it’s time to get talking and singing! #SongsandStories
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