Social Benefits Of Self Esteem

4.3 SOCIAL BENEFITS

Both self-esteem and self-confidence were, by far, the social benefits most referred to by each interviewee, and in many cases, these words were uttered in the same sentence, inextricably linked. As a result, these benefits will appear through many sections of this chapter.

4.3.1 Self-esteem and Self-confidence

Self-confidence and self-esteem is the most important thing that they can pick up in school (Appendix H).

This statement by Seamus, sums up much of what has been said, by all of the other interviewees. In fact, the music project set up by Janet and Breda, was established as a ‘vehicle to tackle self-esteem’ (Appendix E), in a part of Dublin where self-esteem would generally be an issue, where people tend to

Music, according to Cora, is a ‘leveller’, putting them on an equal footing with other students (Appendix F). This is so important during those formative years, and builds their confidence for the future.

4.3.5 Opening Minds and Opportunities

In a similar way to the music project of Janet and Breda, Seamus offers us some interesting examples of how, his students have travelled to visit, and perform with others, and in front of various audiences, developing their self-confidence, and opening their minds to what is out there, outside of their home and school environments.

I think all those things expose Dublin kids, or city kids to a different Ireland … it’s really important for the kids to learn about their culture and … a rural Ireland that they wouldn’t see, because, most kids just go to Lanzarote on their holidays. A lot of them do, a lot of them have no knowledge of the West of Ireland, or rural Ireland, and trad music opens up these avenues for them (Appendix

Music provides a space for children to feel included, and blend in with others, where everybody contributes. Children get a chance to experiment and express themselves through music, experiencing a freedom, perhaps, not previously known to them. For some children, this is one of their few opportunities for choice – between the different genres of music, and what type of instrument they would like to play, as they progress with their music, and into the future. It gives them a sense of autonomy, and a greater awareness of their likes and