Sophia Jones

Advanced Music Performance
Carlow Institute

Having never studied music in school or learned music formally, the idea of studying at college had never entered my mind. Music has always been a way to escape the busy world around me, a way to get lost in its magic. I moved abroad for a short time in 2022 and my guitar became my companion. It was a connection to home and comforted me while away from family. Upon returning, unsure what to do with myself, it was suggested that I enrol in the Music Performance course at Carlow Institute. It turned out to be a suggestion that has truly changed my life.

I never finished school or did my Leaving Cert, so the thought of returning to education after all those years was daunting. However, the support I received from the staff was incredible, and made all the difference. Throughout the Level 5 course, I gained invaluable skills and discovered more about myself.

Our teachers helped nurture our talents, and we were encouraged to push ourselves beyond our limits in a supportive environment, where we felt seen and valued. Music became a way of expressing emotions I never had the words for, and the course gave me the tools to do that effectively. I began to realise that my passion for music could be more than just a hobby – it could be something much greater.

The confidence I gained through this experience has empowered me to pursue music in a serious way. I now see music as not just an escape, but as something I want to share with the world. This course has opened doors I never thought possible, and I’m excited to continue learning and growing in this new chapter of my life.

Currently, I am studying the Advanced Music Performance course at Level 6 in Carlow Institute, while also performing and writing music with Asophonics alongside Aaron Thompson. Every step of the journey has been an incredible learning experience, and I’m excited to see where this path will take me next.

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