Count Us In
Specialist Instrumental Lessons For Teens
• Free instrument on loan
• Free weekly specialist instrumental tuition
• Second level students
Count Us in is a free, specialist instrumental tuition programme for young people in second level education.
Free music lessons are offered in orchestral instruments including Strings, Woodwind and Brass.
Count Us In is a pioneering project modelled on the Venezuelan system of music education, which is regarded as the best in the world. The programme is supported by Louth Leader Partnership, with rehearsals and lessons held in the state-of-the-art facilities at Coláiste Chu Chulainn, Dundalk.
The lessons are based on group tuition, as research shows that young people are more receptive to learning and more motivated in a group situation, especially when they are part of a committed team who strive together to achieve excellence.
Count Us In is based in the belief that children and teens should have the opportunity to take music lessons and experience the social, emotional and academic benefits that come from learning an instrument, particularly in a group setting.
The CBOI has been involved in music education for almost 26 years and is in a unique position in that young musicians trained under the Count Us In programme can go on to become members of the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland.
At certain times of year applications will be open for Count Us In lessons in various different instruments.
If applications for your preferred instrument are currently closed, don’t worry, as you can join our mailing list to receive email alerts about upcoming registration periods and events.
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Testimonials
On behalf of myself and Chris, I want to thank you for the incredible opportunity you have given him. He absolutely loves the Clarinet and Bernie is an amazing teacher. She is fantastic with all the kids. He is looking forward to doing his exam, a big first, and can’t wait until he can join CBOI. There is no music in our family so we can’t believe how well Chris is doing. Thanks so much for everything.
Shauna
I just want to say a very big thank you for everything you’ve done with Liam and the CUI group. He is thrilled to have finally made it into CBOI and absolutely loved the concerts. To watch him up there playing alongside Adam was such a proud Mammy moment for me! Adam is a fabulous Trombone teacher and an inspiration to Liam.
Margaret
Can I take this opportunity to say how amazing and beneficial the ‘Count Us In’ experience has been for Kalina. I firmly believe that playing the violin pulled her through Covid. Thank you so much for keeping the group classes going on Zoom as this was the only interaction she had with her peers. Big thank you to Marieclaire who is an amazing teacher, and achieved so much in such a short space of time. We’re very grateful for all you do.
Kinga
Can I say a huge thank you to yourself, all the chaperones and tutors. We were at the show on Sunday, and it was just amazing. Katie is having the best time, loving her music, and making lots of memories with lovely new friends. She sent me a selfie from the back of the bus on Saturday night with the caption “living the dream”. Thank you so much to you all and please say a big thank you to all the chaperones and 1st and 2nd violinists, Katie said they were all amazing and really looked after the girls. A huge well done and thank you so, so much for this wonderful experience and for the opportunities you are all giving our children. It is really appreciated. Katie loves her CUI lesson with Marieclaire and is thrilled to finally be in CBOI.
Catherine
I want to say a huge thank you to you and the whole CUI team for what you have done for our boys. We play some trad in our house and when the boys decided they wanted to take up Trumpet I was surprised. I can’t believe how they have taken to it and how much they love it! They would never miss a lesson and we don’t have to tell them to practice. They just do it. Testament to their incredible teacher Philip. He is a total inspiration.
A proud parent
