Permission was granted by the Board of Management in early June 2017 to establish a Music Academy at Rockwell College. A busy summer of refurbishment and building online forums ensued. Predicted figures for the business plan were based on 100 students and the year has concluded with 230 students and 11 tutors.

We set about creating a culture of music immediately – dedicating 3 professionals to weekly band and choir practices as an in-house service provided to the school.

A high standard of teaching practice from the outset meant that the Trad group could record for Siansa in November, 9th December we hosted the first RIAM exams and this all culminated in a showcase on 12/12/17.

The launch of new classes in semester 2 meant a big student intake. Cara (Pre-instrumental class) Junior choir and Musical theatre ensemble also began at the beginning of the semester.

RCMA staff and students have become ambassadors for Rockwell college engaging with professionals in many sectors such as Army Band, University of Limerick, WLRFM, Blackwater Valley Opera, Dyslexia Ireland, Caroline Foundation etc.

111 exams were undertaken at every age and stage over the year with 4 different examination boards. There is a 100% pass rate and the current record is 48% achieved distinctions (90% or more).

We hope to expand in the next academic year with the addition of another teaching/rehearsal space. Numbers will be up and two new tutors will join the team. We also propose the addition of hosting ABRSM examinations. Our goal is continue raising the profile of this school, creating a musical culture and proving that sport and music can co-exist.