Inclusive Music Ensemble

Inclusive Music Ensemble (IME): Pioneering Access to Higher Education for All

The Inclusive Music Ensemble (IME) is a collaborative initiative dedicated to providing equitable access to education and culture within a Higher Education setting. We believe everyone has the right to participate fully in university life, as upheld by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities.

IME is a unique partnership between Munster Technological University (MTU) – specifically the Cork School of Music (CSM) – and the Cork Education and Training Board (CETB).

Inclusive Music Programs in Cork

Commencing in late 2021, IME breaks down traditional barriers. Many of our learners have intellectual and physical disabilities, ranging from moderate to profound, who would typically be excluded from participating in university activities.

IME facilitates several learning programmes co-delivered in a single, inclusive classroom setting at the MTU Cork School of Music (located in Cork City centre).

• Academic Pathways: Participants can pursue academic credit at NFQ Levels 3, Level 6, and Level 8, offering meaningful university qualifications to those who would not usually have this opportunity.
• Creative Participation: You can also join IME simply for the joy of making music and artistic expression through CSM’s conservatoire system, without seeking academic credit.
• Focus: IME strives to be an inclusive initiative for artistic expression, creative education, and social interaction through music and performance.

Classes primarily meet on Thursday evenings, with some students also attending on Monday afternoons (schedule varies by course). All participants enjoy full access to CSM classrooms and common room facilities.

Creative Output & Collaboration

The Inclusive Music Ensemble is an active, performing group, showcasing the creative talents of our diverse participants:

• New EP Release: Listen to our latest EP, Seasonal Differences, released in October 2025 (available on all major streaming services).
• Recent Collaborations: We released a short film in May 2024 in partnership with the Irish National Opera and the Everyman Theatre.
• Debut Recordings: Our first recordings were released in October 2023.

Are you looking for inclusive higher education opportunities, specialised music programs for students with disabilities, or NFQ-certified courses at MTU Cork School of Music?

➡️ Contact us today to learn more about joining the Inclusive Music Ensemble.