Grey Hares Ensemble brings a unique elders’ community creative project to Limerick

Grey Hares Ensemble – Mike Quirke, Nóirín Ní Riain Ph. D and Marie Richardson, members of the Grey Hares Ensemble, an over 60 creative and musical group pictured in The Peoples Park Limerick. Picture: Richard Lynch/ilovelimerick

The Grey Hares Ensemble invites Limerick’s older residents to join a unique new initiative offering a social and spiritual support network

A unique new initiative, the Grey Hares Ensemble, is inviting Limerick’s older residents to join them for their first gathering on September 11, 2024 at 11am at the Redemptorist Centre of Music on Island Road, Limerick City, V94 P0A9.

The Grey Hares ensemble, led by director Dr Nóirín Ní Riain, seeks to create an inclusive, joyful space where individuals over 60 can explore the aging process through song, storytelling, and communal interaction.

The Grey Hares Ensemble is more than just a singing group; it’s a social and spiritual support network for those navigating the later stages of life. Inspired by the belief that aging with creativity and humor can lead to a more fulfilling and enriched life, the ensemble aims to combat the isolation, loneliness, and anxiety often experienced in the post-retirement years. 

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By fostering a community where members can connect, share experiences, and participate in creative expression, the Grey Hares Ensemble promises to enhance both the physical and mental well-being of its participants.

Organisers say,” Although our core thread will be through singing, it is intended that there will be a large focus on personal interaction around the ageing process and every person will have a voluntary voice during our gatherings.  This initiative is not to merely produce a choir. That can be very impersonal and anonymous, Our focus will be to give every person a platform for optional individual sharing at some point in time.”

The project is open to anyone over 60 who lives in or around Limerick and is interested in joining a group that values open-heartedness and a willingness to engage in new vocal practices. There are no auditions or requirements for prior musical experience—just a commitment to attend bi-weekly Wednesday morning sessions, which will include group singing, conversation, and, of course, a warm cup of tea.

Under the guidance of Dr Ní Riain, who brings decades of experience in both music and eldercare, the Grey Hares Ensemble will explore a repertoire carefully chosen to resonate with the themes of aging, meaning, and joy. The group will also emphasize the importance of humor and fun in the aging process, making each session a lively and uplifting experience.

With honorary patron Noreen McManus and a dedicated advisory board, the Grey Hares Ensemble is set to become a beacon of creativity and companionship for Limerick’s elder community.

If you are interested in joining the Grey Hares Ensemble please email [email protected]