Harmonizing Generations: The Emsona LIVE Music Collaborative
In County Offaly, a unique symphony is being composed—not just of notes, but of voices, generations, and shared heritage. The Emsona LIVE – Gaelscoil an Eiscir Riada Music Collaborative, funded by the Creative Ireland Programme, exemplifies the transformative power of inclusive arts education.
This project is a holistic ecosystem, not a single event. It begins months in advance, driven by the dedicated preparation of classroom teachers and 190 students (aged 5–12). Established by Adele O’Dwyer in 2022, the Emsona music programme empowers educators to teach music fluency regardless of their prior experience. Throughout the school year, teachers utilize tailored resources to build a solid foundation of confidence and skill. This rigorous, year-long groundwork is the engine that fuels the collaborative magic to come.
The initiative converges when these prepared classrooms meet a diverse ensemble of professional musicians including the Offaly-based, Le Chéile Choir. This multi-faceted collaboration bridges the gap between educator, learner, and artist. Students transition from passive observers to active creators, exploring Irish folk traditions alongside mentors who guide them in interpreting emotion through song and instrument.
Building on the success of the 2025 showcase, the 2026 project culminates in a public performance and display of creative work on Friday, 12 June in Gaelscoil an Eiscir Riada, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. This event serves as a vital feedback loop, allowing the community to witness the fruits of the year’s labour.
Emsona LIVE proves that when teachers, students, and artists unite, music becomes a universal language connecting us all.
Andrius Kozlovskis, Director
Le Chéile is a community choir based in Tullamore, Co. Offaly, Ireland. Founded in 2007 by Musical Director, Andrius Kozlovskis, the choir possesses a broad repertoire from sacred to secular music, old standards, and popular music - with a twist! Le Chéile regularly presents musical events for the benefit of both local and national charities and collaborative music-making is at the heart of their contribution to the musical life of the locality. The choir is regularly seen teaming up to perform with a wide variety of musical talent and in many different musical styles and settings.
Emsona, Founder
Based in Tullamore, Co. Offaly, Ireland, Adele is a cellist, composer and educator with a varied musical career spanning 4 decades. The focus of Adele’s current work is on the creation of opportunities to break down barriers that limit music-learning participation. The Emsona LIVE - Gaelscoil an Eiscir Riada Music Collaborative project represents the continuation of that journey.
Embrace the journey,
Embody the music,
Empower the artist.
A Lifetime of Music