Squeak & Hoo is a multimedia programme that uses original music to support emotional literacy and wellbeing in young children. I produced the project and co-created the music and characters with music producer Chris Bubenzer. Funded by the Arts Council and developed in collaboration with an inner-city Dublin playschool, the project included close work with educators and a play therapist to create a rich, evidence-informed learning resource.
The result is a joyful package of alt-pop songs, whimsical stories, simple choreography, and creative exercises. Accompanied by guided discussion prompts, the resource is designed to help preschool and early primary children explore feelings through movement, play, and imagination alongside the caregivers and educators in their lives. The full package is now available for purchase on a sliding scale, ensuring it’s accessible to all early years settings and families.
Contact me via the link below, or on 0860769375.
SQUEAK & HOO
Work-in-progress show in The Ark, May 2025
Squeak and Hoo Learning Resource Sample Pages
Launch Day at Ozanam House
L-R: Chris Bubenzer, Music Producer; Geraldine and Debbie Keegan, Ozanam House; Lord Mayor Cllr Ray McAdam; Cllr Janet Horner; Deborah Byrne, Lead Artist and Project Coordinator
THE ANTIX
The Antix is a children’s story-driven music podcast for 3-6 year olds. Maggie (aged 6) has a musical ant farm on her bedroom shelf, and, when faced with a question (some existential, some practical) she watches the ants in their little world, and uses her imagination to find the answers with the help of songs from the ants Cargo, Doc and Snot, and their friends.
The podcast was commissioned by RTE and Coimisiún na Meán, and my collaborator Chris Bubenzer and I created, directed, wrote and composed the 8-episode series. We were delighted to feature a diverse range of Irish independent musicians including Jafaris (Sing Street), Jess Kav (Sister Fenix) and Niall O Halloran (NIYL) within the cast.
If Bluey has taught us anything it's that there is value in creating art that is enjoyable for both the parents and their children. Rather than relying on the old favourites which can get a bit tiring after the 100th listen, we created the kind of music that parents can enjoy rather than endure with our children.
Read more about the series here.
HVMMINGBYRD
HVMMINGBYRD is an alt-pop duo blending lush harmonies, emotive storytelling, and atmospheric production. Co-created and performed with Suzette Das, I wrote and produced songs that explore themes of connection, vulnerability, and transformation.
Our music featured on E4’s Made in Chelsea, RTE’s Striking Out, and H&M’s global playlist, while our live shows were known for their immersive soundscapes and visual flair. We’ve performed at major Irish festivals and toured internationally. Through HVMMINGBYRD, I honed my songwriting, production, and performance skills, balancing artistic sensitivity with project management, community engagement, and innovative audience outreach.