Cork children's 'Winter Song' music video spreading some festive cheer   

Cork students have been spreading some festive cheer this year with the release of their heartwarming Christmas music video.

Students at the School of the Divine Child, a co-educational specialist school for students with physical and complex disabilities, shine in their performance of ‘Winter Song’ which was developed in collaboration with Music Generation Cork City, music producer Oran O’Reilly, and video producer Seán Downey.

Principal Fiona Thomas said: "This year, instead of our usual Christmas concert, we embarked on a creative journey to produce a music video that truly reflects the spirit and capabilities of our students.

"Our collaboration with Music Generation Cork City, Oran O’Reilly, the magical presence of Santa, and the artistic direction of Seán Downey (@SwanIGuess), have culminated in a visual and musical celebration of the season."

The School of the Divine Child may sound familiar to many, as it was the same school that captured hearts worldwide last February with its viral cover of Aslan’s Crazy World as a tribute to Christy Dignam before his passing.

Speaking to The Echo, Séan Downey, freelance youth-based video producer and workshop facilitator at The Kabin Studio in Cork who also worked with the children on the Crazy World video back in February, said the new Christmas music video is more than just a seasonal celebration and is a showcase of the extraordinary abilities and unbridled joy of the pupils.

“From my experience there in February, I already knew that the kids were great to work with. What was nice is that due to the release of the Crazy World video, I think a lot of the kids in the school could see why they were doing what they were doing so to see their energy and them giving it their all, singing the lyrics, going through their Lámh, interacting with the camera - they are just an amazing group.

“There's such a magical presence in that school. The way they are with the kids, the way they all are with each other, it was just a lovely experience.” 

During filming, the children also had a special visit from Santa, which Mr Downey said was very special for them.

He said that it was amazing to see the kids enjoying and expressing themselves in a safe environment, and singing and dancing.

Mr Downey, who had a difficult upbringing, said turning to using a camera and making music brought him out of that world and allowed him to express himself.

Now, he works with The Kabin Studio in Cork providing workshops, teaching young people how to take photographs, shoot videos, write music, and record music, as well as some multimedia such as Photoshop.

Outside of his work at The Kabin, he works with schools and youth organisations creating music videos and promotional videos, as well as working closely with the Cork Local Creative Youth Partnership to ensure children have access to creative outlets.