The DIPC is delighted to embark on its Schools Programme, getting primary school children in Central Dublin excited about the piano!

This wonderful programme, run by Maki Mutai, introduces Primary School children (2nd to 6th Class) to the piano through interactive and engaging workshops.  Sessions include rhythm and listening activities, along with simple hands-on playing using familiar pieces and patterns, giving children a chance to explore sound, creativity and musical expression in an accessible and enjoyable way.

It is the DIPC’s aim to have children dream big and hopefully one day, have competitors whose love for piano started with this exciting programme.

It is planned to continue the programme in 2025.

“St. Peter’s National school have been honoured and blessed to avail of the services and talent of Maki Mutai (as part of the Dublin International Piano Competition’s Schools Programme) over the course of two sessions at the end of November and early December ’24.  Maki has been very flexible, engaging and really interested in drawing out, promoting and developing the talents of our very lucky 5th class pupils.  Their class teacher (Ms. Horan) was very impressed with the progress and scope of musical experiences Maki introduced to the pupils over the course of a mere 90 minutes.” -Raymond Ryan, Principal of St. Peter’s, D7.

“We received two magical music/piano sessions where our boys were completely absorbed by Maki‘s personality, her skill, her teaching and her enthusiasm.  Some of the boys who rarely engage with external educators were stimulated and have subsequently asked about ‘the next session’.  Some boys who claimed to ‘hate’ music were converted by Maki‘s approach and her multisensory teaching style.  I can safely say the experience opened our eyes to the possibilities of music and how it can captivate such a diverse group of children.  Maki would be welcomed back with open arms if ever the opportunity arises in the future.  We are delighted that a selection of our boys were exposed to such musical genius and we know that this short input will live long in their memories.” -James Hayden, Principal of St. Malachy’s, Edenmore.