MUSIC GENERATION my music generation journey… ‘Music Gen to us was a stepping stone, an opening to a whole dif- ferent world, because where we were from there was no ‘joining groups’, unless it was violence. There was no community centre, there was nothing like that. So when we met the lads at Music Gen and saw that people are coming together to create music, and they like it – they actually love it – and they’re asking if we want to come back and record stuff and you’re given those opportunities, that’s beautiful. That’s everything for someone who has nothing.’ – Hazey Haze (Limerick City musician) “… thanks so much to you all for giving Conor time, understand- ing, but most of all confidence, I didn't recognise the person he has become until yesterday, never once have I seen Conor chat to other teenagers like that, laugh and smile… I was so happy with his performance yesterday – but mostly happy with his interaction with those around him – which is nothing short of a miracle…” – Parent, South Dublin connect 2018 • 12 Earlier this summer Music Generation was honoured to play a small part in the great success of The Ireland Funds Conference 2018. On Wednesday evening, delegates received a fitting fanfare performed by a New Orleans-style ensemble of young brass musicians from Music Generation Cork City and Cork’s Barrack Street Band. The following morning, Music Generation Limerick City was thrilled to welcome delegates to its Creative Centre for a morning rich in mu- sic and song. Taking a tour through the Centre, delegates experienced youth music-making first hand and saw creativity come to life between young rappers, songwriters, rock bands and Limerick City musician- mentors. Among those playing at the Centre were sixth class students from Corpus Christi National School, Moyross, who performed their own original song about ‘turning tears into laughter’ through music. They were joined by recent Music Generation 'graduates' and rappers SameD4ence, who spoke passionately about the power of music in bringing together divided communities and supporting young people even in the most challenging social circumstances. music generation at the ireland funds conference 2018