Tinto Summer School has been welcoming amazing young people since it started back in 2000. Every year, we get to meet a lovely group of students who enjoy learning music and having fun. It’s always inspiring to see so many bright and motivated young people come together and share their experiences, forming new connections and friendships that often last well after Tinto. We’re also grateful to have a wonderful community of Tinto alumni who continue to inspire us with their success stories.
We asked Paul Murray a few questions about their time at Tinto.
When was your first year at Tinto and how did you hear about it?
Clair M was giving out leaflets at BBC Music live in April 2000. I was there with the Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin.
How did Tinto Summer School impact your personal and professional growth?
Tinto has become a huge part of my life. I’ve learnt so much about working with children and teenagers while at Tinto in what has been a 25+ year career of doing just that! Working with more experienced supervisors and tutors has taught be loads and still does. I regularly work with supervisors who have more skills than I do in certain areas and I try my best to learn from them so I can be even better at what I do.
What were some of your favourite experiences or activities during your time at Tinto Summer School?
Music music music – so much music. Tunes and songs with tutors and participants where it it impossible to tell who’s who. Crazy room “tidies” stick in my head, bizarre fancy dress costumes at the ceilidh, the widest variety of performances (acrobatics!) at the tutor and room concerts are all highlights. My favourite is probably the bonfire though. There’s something “primal” about gathering round a fire and singing silly, meaningless songs. It’s a tradition that goes back many years and I’m delighted to have become the latest crazy part of that “carrying stream”.
What’s the biggest thing you took away from Tinto?
There is no greater pleasure for anyone working with young folk than seeing someone arrive scared and reticent but be the “life and soul of the party” by the end of the week. They’ll then come back the next year as the experienced crowd, bringing on the next group of scared and reticent arrivals.It’s also fantastic that Tinto and Wiston Lodge can often be places of safety for many folk who struggle to “fit in” at school. The environment there is so supportive. The motto of “A Place to Grow” is one that we all subscribe to.
Have you kept in touch with people you met at Tinto?
Yes indeed! The bulk of my friendship base is made up of the early Tinto participants. Weve all been to each others weddings, birthday parties, and celebrations and Tinto is always mentioned to be at the heart of what brought us together.
What advice would you give to anyone new to anyone starting on their Tinto Summer Journey this year?
Bring a towel and midge repellent. Try not to be confined by what you think would be best for you. Allow yourself to experience, and grow.
Read about our other Tinto Summer School Alumni.
If you would like to come to a Tinto Summer School, we would love to see you! Tinto Summer School 2024 is in July 2024 at Wiston Lodge, Wiston, South Lanarkshire. Join our newsletter to find out more.
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