Fionn Crean Mac Oireachtaigh
I’m a musician , playing Uileann pipes, flute and guitar. I’m also a hurlers and play for my local club Eire Og and for the County under 16 hurling team. I love singing contemporary but also traditional songs.
Musician has always been in my life since my earliest memories. I have a video of me singing a song at about one and a half years old and my parents said I made the lyrics up myself. I also have a memory of singing and playing guitar in my primary school on stage but my earliest accomplishment is me playing music with my dad on the Harbour bar stage in Bray. I have a great photo of us.
My dad was an amazing musician and gave me a love of music from the minute I was born. My favourite creative activity is my Uileann Pipes and I started these at age 12.
I ‘ve always got so much fun and just pure enjoyment when I play the pipes. But lately, as I got older and when my dad passed away, I get this sense of connection to him and peace when I play. There are times when the music reminds me of how much I’d love to be playing music with him like we used but it mostly brings me a sense of being close to him.
I always tell people to try an instrument and to just view music or art as part of fun. I also tell friends how much music has opened my life to new friends who will be friends for life with common interests.
Creativity is what you make it!
Freya Roche
My name is Freya, I’m 16 years old from Wicklow! I am an all Ireland and European Dance Champion. My dream is to open my own dance studio one day.
My earliest memories of Creativity is when I used to make up dances in my sitting room. I started dancing at age 4 as my mom thought it would give me confidence as I was quite shy. When I dance I feel most like myself. It gives me a sense of frreedom and becomes a language that allows me to express emotions and ideas. It is empowereing while also teaching discipline and imagination!
I think the best thing about Cruinniú na nÓg is that it gives young people across Ireland the chance to experience creativity in an accessibly and inclusive way.
I would encourage all young peole to dance and explore themselves through movement!
