Mullingar Music Academy celebrates first anniversary

As the Mullingar Music Academy celebrates its first anniversary, it continues to solidify its place as a leading destination for one-to-one music education in the region. Located in the Bandhall at Mullingar Business Park, the academy offers a broad range of lessons, including piano, drums, guitar, voice, violin, saxophone, and flute. Classes are available Monday to Friday, in afternoons and evenings, catering to students of all ages and skill levels.

Whether students are pursuing graded exams, preparing for performances, or learning just for fun, the academy tailors its programmes to meet each individual’s needs. The instructors focus on creating a supportive and enjoyable learning environment, allowing students to develop their skills at their own pace.

The academy’s team of highly experienced instructors bring a wealth of expertise and passion to their teaching.

Cathy Byrne, a dedicated pianist with a BMus degree from Maynooth University, has a background in classical, modern, folk, and rock music. Specialising in the analysis of Béla Bartók’s compositions for her M.Litt thesis, Cathy has spent much of her career teaching piano and working as an accompanist.

She has taught at Maynooth University, where many of her students have gone on to successful careers in music. Cathy’s teaching emphasises accuracy and technique while fostering an appreciation for various musical styles. She also encourages playing by ear, ensuring that her lessons remain both structured and creatively engaging.

Ray McLoughlin brings decades of experience in genres such as Jazz, blues, country, and pop. With a BSc(Hons) from the University of Greenwich and diplomas from ABRSM and the Royal Victoria College of Music, Ray has served as musical director for artists like Daniel O’Donnell and performed at prestigious venues like The Royal Albert Hall. His teaching philosophy, rooted in real-world experience, focuses on personalised lessons that align with each student’s goals.

Tom Woodlock offers more than 20 years of drumming experience, having been a section leader of the Clonmel Bluehawks Drumline and a graduate of BIMM Dublin. Currently touring internationally with the metal band Cruachan, Tom provides drum lessons that cater to all skill levels, drawing on his extensive experience as both a performer and educator.

Adrian Kelly is a seasoned saxophonist with a 20-year career in the Army Band and a rich history in the Mullingar Town Band. His diverse performance experience includes wedding bands, jazz gigs, and original projects like The Deep Funk Project. Adrian’s teaching, informed by his studies at Trinity College London and further jazz training, focuses on helping students unlock their saxophone potential.

Kim Magee, director of Mullingar Town Band, holds an MA in Community Music from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance and a BA Hons in Applied Music from DkIT. Kim’s role with the Mullingar Town Band involves overseeing music programmes, project leading performance tours, and delivering comprehensive instrumental tuition. Her diverse professional background and passion for music education make her a key figure at the Academy.

Raimonda Masiulytė-Ramchurn is a pop, soul, and jazz singer from Lithuania with a background in opera and jazz vocals, piano, and choir conducting. A member of the Dublin Gospel Choir and leader of a jazz quartet, Raimonda offers vocal lessons at the academy, drawing on her extensive performance and recording experience to guide her students.

With its expert instructors and wide range of programmes, the Mullingar Music Academy is the perfect place for anyone looking to develop their musical talents, whether for professional pursuits or personal enjoyment.