An important breeding ground for many of the island’s talented and well-known traditional musicians has been made into the subject of a new film.

’Share na Veg: Over 45 years of Manx music’ tells the story of the youth music group ’Share na Veg’.

Led by music teacher Mike Boulton, it has taught hundreds of school children in the north of the island how to play Manx folk music, giving them their first taste of playing with tin whistles, guitars, fiddles and many other instruments since its inception in 1970.

Meaning ’Better Than Nothing’ in Manx Gaelic, Mike has been running Share Na Veg for 45 years and, following the merging of the Auldyn and Albert Road schools, he now teaches at the Bunscoill Rhumsaa.

Former members of ’Share Na Veg’ have gone onto form groups, such as Mactullagh Vannin, Bee er dty Hwoaie and Paitchyn Vannin, who have played internationally and recorded many albums.

Also, award-winning harpist Mera Royle also took her first steps in music with the group.

The fly-on-the-wall style documentary, filmed and produced by Culture Vannin, features scenes from a typical daily practice, where dozens of whistle players and harpists gather to play, along with interviews and recollection with Mike over his 45 years of leading the group.

’Over the past four decades, hundreds of students have played with the school group, and stemming from Mike’s enthusiasm, and encouragement of Manx music and the language,’ said Dr Chloe Woolley, herself a former member of Share Na Veg.

’The interest he sparked has also remained with many of his former pupils who have gone on to assist with Share na Veg or lead their own school groups.

’Mike’s contribution to Manx culture was acknowledged in 1996 when he was awarded the prestigious Reih Bleeaney Vanannan.

’Although Mike retired from teaching in 1998, he has continued to dedicate most of his mornings to visiting Bunscoill Rhumsaa to teach new generations of young people Manx music.’

l Watch the film on YouTube or via culturevannin.im