Blas International Summer School of Irish Music and Dance

2 months ago

Message from Blas Director Pamela Cotter:

Well, the time has come to say farewell! After 6 incredible years, I have decided to step down as Blas Director. Blas is a truly special programme, and it has been an honour to work with so many incredibly talented musicians, singers, and dancers over the years. I am not just talking about the teachers, but also the wonderfully talented students from all over the world that join us each summer.

The last few years certainly presented new challenges, but I am immensely proud to say Blas persevered through it all. I never imagined I would be re-designing the programme for a virtual context, but the experience has taught me so much. There was also no greater feeling than welcoming everyone back together in person last summer after two long years apart.

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the amazing tutors who returned each year, the wonderful faculty and admin in the Irish World Academy, all my Blas minions (including honourary minion Conal), and of course, a massive thank you to Niall and Sandra for their support over the years.

I wish the new Blas team all the success in the world. This is certainly not goodbye, as now that it is no longer a conflict of interest, I will be able to take part in the annual Trad Table Quiz!

Mo mhíle buíochas libh go léir. Beir bua, Pam ... See MoreSee Less

Blas International Summer School of Irish Music and Dance

2 months ago

After six years of dynamic leadership, Pam Cotter is stepping back from the directorship of the Blas International Summer School of Irish Music and Dance to devote herself to the conclusion of her doctoral research. The sustainability of the summer school during the last turbulent years has been in no small part due to her commitment and hard work. As Blas heads into the next phase of its development, we are incredibly grateful to Pam for the strong community she has helped us build around the school. Blas chairperson, Dr Niall Keegan noted “Pam’s energy and perseverance has kept the pedagogical philosophy of Blas burning brightly over the turmoil of recent years, bringing new artists and students into the wider family of the Irish World Academy. She has also made an indelible stamp of good governance and community engagement that will be difficult to live up to. Her example will guide Blas into the future.” ... See MoreSee Less

Blas International Summer School of Irish Music and Dance updated their cover photo.

4 months ago

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