Women in business in Galway: grit, creativity — and community
International Women's Day 2026 – Carmel Garrett, Galway Youth Orchestra
Galway Youth Orchestra (GYO) was founded in 1982 by musician and composer Maire Ní Dhuibhir, who later established the Music Matters music school in New Inn. Her vision created a welcoming space where young musicians could learn, grow, and perform together.
Forty-four years later, GYO is one of the longest-running youth orchestras in Ireland and the oldest community youth orchestra in the West of Ireland. Over the decades, it has developed into an important musical institution in the region, nurturing generations of talented young performers and fostering a lifelong love of music.
As a non-profit organisation and registered charity, GYO has received generous support from Galway City Council and GRETB through arts and youth grants, along with sponsorship from many local businesses.
Because GYO is a voluntary organisation, much of its ongoing financial support comes from membership fees and concert performances. Combined with the commitment and involvement of parents, this community spirit forms the backbone of the orchestra.
Carmel Garrett joined GYO in 1987 when her children, Caroline and Amy, became members. Rehearsals were then held in GTI on Fr. Griffin Road, under conductors Helen Sheehan, Liz Barry, and Jennifer Kelly. After more than thirty years, Carmel says the reward is hearing young people create beautiful music together directed by their wonderful conductors Ingrid Nicola, Joanne Cater and Michael Dooley.