On Friday last excitement in Coláiste Chill Mhantáin was at fever pitch as the school community prepared itself for the launch of their recently composed charity single “Your Love Still Guides My Way” in association with IMRO and local songwriter Luan Parle. The students were joined at the event by Minister Simon Harris; Luan Parle; Chairperson of the Board of Management, Cllr Nicola Lawless; members of the Board of Management; Cllr. John Snell and representatives from the chosen charities, The Irish Heart Foundation and Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.
Luan was instrumental in the genesis of this wonderful initiative as she facilitated song writing workshops in the school last March. During his opening address Principal, Mr Donoghue noted that the song was already in the charts sandwiched between Niall Horan’s recent release “Slow Hands” and "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi ft. Justin Bieber! However, by 4pm that evening much had changed and with the support of the school community, the people of Wicklow and the chosen charities “Your Love Still Guides My Way” had in fact hit the top spot on the iTunes chart. Those involved are, needless to say, “over the moon” with the success of the single, both in relation to the charities and also the lifelong memories that they will have as a result of this initiative.
This songwriting project was initiated by IMRO within 5 schools nationwide, Luan considered Coláiste Chill Mhantáin as a natural choice for her to work with considering her long association with the school and indeed Abbey CC. Luan noted from the outset that the positive atmosphere in the school and the exceptional musical talents of the students assured her that the project would be both an enjoyable and successful experience.
Following the initial recording of the song Luan was so enthused by the finished version that she sought the support of IMRO to officially record the song for release on iTunes. The project caught fire with the support of Ms McAdam, music teacher in CCM, the students, Luan, Gavin Rolston and Colin Flynn. The official single and promotional video were recorded in the school. This recording was published on the school Facebook page to whet the appetite. KWETB and school social media platforms provided positivemarketing for the project.
CCM Charity Single
“Your Love Still Guides My Way”