The Happiness Ensemble

The Happiness Ensemble was the brainchild of Peter Fitzpatrick in 2014. Seeking an alternative way to recover from depression and anxiety, he rediscovered his love of music and voice. Knowing other music lovers suffered the same fate, Peter created ‘The Happiness Ensemble’.

Engaging help from West Cork music and arts coordinator Kevin O’Shanahan, the idea was for service users and providers to leave their labels at the door and enter as musicians, whatever their level of experience. The group play improvised sounds together, with the emphasis on listening to each other musically. This helps participants listen to each other and support each other through difficult times, build confidence and give each musician space to breathe and freely express themselves. The group has developed musically to create high quality sounds that wouldn’t be out of place in a downtown jazz club, comedy musical or nightclub rap battle, depending which way the improvisation swings.

With an underlying camaraderie and sensitivity to each other’s talents with various instruments, voices and on the spot lyrical creativity, the group creates high vibe, unique and authentic sounds week after week. All made even more special by the ‘in the moment’ fleeting nature of their creations.

 

The Happiness Ensemble meets weekly in 49 North Street on Wednesday’s from 11am to 1pm.


                         

49 North Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork