Ballyclare teacher going the extra mile for pupil

Dorothy Orr, who has been head of Ballyclare High School’s Music Department since 2016, has set herself a challenge to complete 150 miles before February 15 to raise money to purchase a new brass instrument for a promising young musician.

Ms Orr, who is a keen park runner, commenced the generous effort on New Year’s Day with the aim of raising £1,500 by either walking or running.

The money will buy a tenor horn for a Year 9 student who started playing while at Fairview Primary School.

The young pupil is currently using a 70-year-old instrument which belongs to Ballyclare High.

Speaking to the Times, Dorothy said: “The girl is a really hard working child and her commitment is fantastic. There are 35 pupils in the junior band and over 40 in the senior band and this instrument will benefit both bands.

“I applied for a grant from the Arts Council, but this was rejected. In March 2020 we received over £8,000 from the Arts Council to buy instruments, so I wasn’t too annoyed when my request was rejected.

“The girl is a promising young musician, so I decided to go about raising the money for the new instrument myself.”

She added: “Thanks to everyone who has generously supported me so far. These are hard times for the arts and music education. It is very important that children have good quality instruments.

“When it is safe to do so we look forward to performing in the events that Ballyclare High is famous for, including our concerts and carol services.

“If I exceed my funding target, any additional money would be well used for hardware and accessories.”

An online fundraising page has been set up to collect money for the new tenor horn.

So far £875 has been raised. If you would like to make a donation, visit the JustGiving page here

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