Who are the organizers?
The Youth Camp is organized by the Traditional Irish Music Education Society (TIMES), a Texas non-profit corporation based in Richardson, Texas, which was formed to “assist and encourage people in their learning and playing of traditional Irish music through educational programs and performance events.”
What is the Camp’s purpose/mission?
The O’Flaherty Irish Music Youth Camp is a learning environment that focuses on teaching the fundamentals of traditional Irish music to youth ages 6 through 17. It serves to encourage young and new players as they struggle through the learning process. It also challenges more experienced players to master their instruments and the music that they love. But most of all, it is a continuation of a tradition that started long ago in Ireland as the music was passed down from one generation to another to preserve it. It has since evolved into a “world” music, but the tradition of passing it on and preserving it is alive and well, even in Texas.
Who was Jim O’Flaherty?
Jim O’Flaherty was a piper who influenced many of the local Irish players from the early 80’s until his passing in July 2001. His family hosted annual sessions in their home attracting players from all around the state. Jim’s enthusiasm and love for traditional Irish music and his strong interest in helping young players inspired the founding of the O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat, an annual event held during the last weekend in October, and The Youth Camp. As a tribute to Jim, the retreat and Camp are named for him.