On Saturday evening, a devastating fire tore through the old Jute Factory in Tycor Business Park, Waterford, destroying and severely damaging a number of local businesses, including the beloved Waterford Centre of Music.

For the past 17 years, Waterford Centre of Music has been at the heart of the local community, providing music lessons, stage school training, performances, confidence, creativity, and lifelong friendships for children and adults across Waterford. Built with passion, dedication, and hard work by Jean and Ellenor, and supported by their families and staff, the school has become a second home to so many.

In a matter of hours, their premises, instruments, costumes, equipment, offices, and years of memories were lost in the fire. Along with the owners their five employees have suddenly been left without their workplace and income.

Despite the devastation, the goal is to rebuild and keep the music alive for the hundreds of students and families who rely on the school every week.

We are asking the community, past pupils, parents, friends, and anyone who can help to support Waterford Centre of Music during this heartbreaking time. Every donation, no matter how small, will go towards helping them recover, replace essential equipment, secure temporary premises, support staff, and begin rebuilding what was lost.

Thank you for supporting a local family business that has given so much joy, opportunity, and encouragement to the people of Waterford over the last 17 years.