Cork's Kabin Studio joins forces with community partnership for Irish language rap workshops 

FRESH from the success of the viral hit ‘The Spark’, The Kabin Studio has joined with a community partnership to host Irish-language rap workshops for second-level students from Knocknaheeny.

The Barr na gCnoc summer camp this week is offering participants an innovative way to engage with the Irish language, through music and creativity.

Barr na gCnoc, a community partnership co-ordinated by Professor Pádraig Ó Macháin, from Ionad na Gaeilge Labhartha at University College Cork (UCC), in collaboration with Terence MacSwiney Community College, Knocknaheeny, aims to empower the local youth by integrating academic and cultural resources.

Led by principal Phil O’Flynn, the initiative addresses the community’s demand for educational diversity.

By establishing an Aonad Lán-Ghaeilge, where all subjects are taught through Irish, Barr na gCnoc fosters a comprehensive Irish-language education from first year through to Leaving Certificate.

At the summer camp this week, The Kabin Studio brought their expertise in music production, with the workshops facilitated by Garry McCarthy (GMC Beats), Séamus Barra Ó Súilleabháin, The Kabin tutors, and UCC students.

Participants were guided through the process of writing and recording raps, but as Gaeilge. “The initiative underscores the importance of culturally relevant language learning and community engagement,” Prof Ó Macháin said. “By embedding the Irish language into students’ hobbies and interests, the programme aims to provide a sense of belonging and confidence.”

Speaking to The Echo, project manager at Barr na gCnoc, Adel Coleman, said 14 young people have taken part in this inaugural year of the workshops. “They’re loving it,” she said.

“At the moment, there’s a sean-nós dancer in with them and they’re rapping to the beat of the taps.”

The summer camp concludes today with a showcase at The Kabin.