IT’S OFTEN said that the older the fiddle, the sweeter the tune but it’s old bodhráns that are of special interest to a city-based group.
The men – and women – of St Mary’s Men’s Shed in Nicholas Street are appealing for people who have bodhráns that are no longer being played to donate them for a very worthwhile purpose.
The group regularly visit St Paul’s Nursing home in Dooradoyle to play music and sing along with the residents.
Said music teacher, Liam Moloney, “if we had six or so bodhráns, we could give them to the residents in St Paul’s so they could play along with us. “We can’t fund everything and I just felt there might be people out there who have a bodhrán lying around in the house but don’t play it. It would get a good home with us”.
The music group meets between 7 and 9pm each Tuesday and is open to men and women over the age of 18. Young people under that age can also join in, provided they come with a parent or guardian.
“The cost is €3 for the night and the idea is to pay €3 and try to eat €6 worth of biscuits,” Liam told the Limerick Post.
“I know it’s a Men’s Shed project, but we wanted the music to be open to everyone. We’re also starting woodwork classes for those interested in another area of creative enterprise.
“The Shed is a social focal point and it’s very positive for people’s mental health. It’s better that they come along and have a cup of tea and a chat than ending up in hospital,” he said.
