Sir, - On behalf of the members of the Forum for Music in Ireland, may I applaud the unequivocal view of Kevin Myers as set out in An Irishman's Diary of January 5th? Music in Ireland is shockingly neglected and under-resourced, in spite of the heroic efforts of many teachers and administrators.
In support of these dedicated musicians, the forum was formed in 1999. This umbrella body is an active network of organisations and individuals involved in all genres of music at both amateur and professional levels. Its aim is to give a voice to the sector. With some 100 members already, most of them representative organisations, we hop it will influence action in support of the development of music in Ireland in all its forms.
Those who are interested in further information and membership details may contact the forum's administrator, Nicola Murphy, on 086-321 9644 or at the address below. - Yours, etc.,
Dr Joseph Ryan, Chairperson, Forum for Music in Ireland, Fishamble Street, Dublin 8.
E-mail: forum@cmc.ie