Musicians from Tullamore academy earn 'spotlight award' recognition

Two young musicians from the Academy of Music in Tullamore have been honoured with the prestigious Spotlight Award from the Royal Irish Academy of Music, recognising their outstanding achievements in recent examinations.

Eoin Dillon, a Grade 6 voice student with Ciarán Brady, and Patrick MacCartain, a Grade 6 flute student with Kimberely Melia, were selected for this distinguished accolade - an honour reserved for the highest-performing candidates nationwide.

Eoin is from Athlone, while Patrick is from Birr.

Their success has brought great pride to the Academy of Music, based on Tara Street in Tullamore, which this year celebrates its eighteenth year serving Offaly's county town and the wider Midlands region.

Over nearly two decades, the Academy of Music has built a reputation as a centre of musical excellence. It has produced award-winning choirs, nurtured prize-winning students, and filled concert halls with music from soloists and ensembles that uplifts and inspires audiences of all ages.

In a statement, the Academy of Music said the achievements of students like Eoin and Patrick embody its mission.

"Their dedication to their craft—supported by their teachers, families, and the Academy’s vibrant musical community—showcases the transformative power of music education," it said.