| Class Schedule (PDF File) |
Class Schedule (MS Excel File) |
About Student Ages
Our regular classes are for students ages 11 and older. We have a Kids FUN Camp for ages 6-10 that will include musical instruction but also other fun activities. Please see the description under Kids FUN Camp below. For a child under 11 to enroll in regular classes, we require an audition recording and a written reference from a music teacher or non-family member who is familiar with the child's abilities.
About Class Levels
Classes are intended for players with the basic skills required to play their instruments. We regret that due to the short duration of the retreat , except for the bodhran and tinwhistle, it is not practical to offer instruction for novice students who have never played their instruments. All of our non-instrument classes are open to all levels. Here are the class levels provided at the retreat:
Basic or Fundamentals classes are for those students who know how to play their instruments at a beginning level and will learn the fundamentals of playing Irish music. These classes are not designed for players just starting to learn their instruments, but rather, students who are familiar enough with their instruments that they are already playing some melodies on them or, in the case of rhythm instruments, familiar with basic chording. A knowledge of Irish music is not necessary.
Intermediate/Adavanced classes are for those students who are able to play many tunes by ear with good technique and at a reasonable speed (i.e., dance tempo) or know how to accompany tunes on their rhythm instruments. A knowledge of Irish music is helpful. Please refer to requirements, if any, for these classes before enrolling.
About Class Progressions (Please Note)
Classes are progressive from one to the next if the class title includes a number that increases with each offering (e.g., Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, etc.) On the other hand, informances and specific non-instrument classes (e.g., ABCs and Learning by Ear) include the same content each time they are offered. IMPORTANT: Please attend only those classes that you have enrolled. If you would like to transfer to a different class, come to the main office or the retreat booth. Some classes may be full and can not accept additional students.
About Enrichment Classes
Each day of the retreat during a particular time period, our guest instructors offer "enrichment classes" that are designed to help provide context for the music that is learned at the retreat. The classes may present historical perspectives, actual life experiences or in-depth studies of the origins of styles, methods, tunes, etc. These are wonderful opportunities to learn about Irish music.
About Instruments Played in Classes (Please
Note)
In classes where Irish music is being taught on specific instruments,
students must use only those instruments in those classes. Examples:
Five-stringed banjos would not be appropriate for the tenor banjo classes;
cellos not appropriate for the fiddle classes; button accordions not
appropriate for the piano accordion classes, etc. If you don't have
the right instrument for a given class, you may audit the class but
please don't bring any instruments that aren't required for it.
ABC NOTATION
Learning Your ABCs (Rick Roberts)
ABC music notation has become the internet standard for sharing Irish tunes around the world. Using ABC notation, Irish tunes can be represented in a few lines of text that anyone can type at computer keyboard. For those that don’t read music, it is often easier to learn than standard music notation. For those that do read music, software is readily available to print high quality sheet music from tunes in ABC format. In this workshop, students will learn how to read and write ABC notation, how to print sheet music from ABC notation on your PC, how to play ABC tunes on your PC, and where and how to download Irish tunes from the internet.
BODHRAN
Bodhran (Anna Colliton) -- Progressive Class
This class will introduce the rudiments of Irish music as applied to the bodhran. Class discussions will include such topics as session etiquette, care and feeding of the bodhran, rim shots, and basic left-hand techniques to adjust the tone. The class will also include an overview of the principal dance tune forms including jigs (double and slip), reels, hornpipes, polkas, slides, etc. This class is for all levels. Emphasis will be placed on variations of rhythm and style and using both hands to support and "play" the melody along with lead instruments
BOUZOUKI/OCTAVE MANDOLIN
Bouzouki/Octave Mandolin (Chris Smith) -- Progressive Class
Chris Smith, author of the standard book/CD set "Celtic Backup for All Instrumentalists" (2000, Mel Bay) presents a course focusing on developing the "whole" bouzouki player: harmonizing and reharmonizing tunes and songs; creating contrapuntal parts in the style of Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny; enhancing the ability to hear and play parts by ear and on the fly; and, perhaps most uniquely, how to hear and improvise imaginative, tasteful accompaniments to the Irish session tune repertoire. Open to players at all levels but does presuppose a basic familiarity with the instrument. Not instrument-specific: players of 4- and 5-string instruments, in any tuning, and of related instruments like mandolin and mandola, will find the course equally engaging and rewarding. Chris Smith welcomes direct inquires regarding course content, at chris@coyotebanjo.com, and invites interested students to sample the (free) instructional materials at http://coyotebanjo.com/music-group-28.html
BUTTON ACCORDIONS - C#/D & B/C
C#/D & B/C Button Accordions (John Nolan) -- Progressive Class
This class will explore the C#/D and B/C button accordions played in the Irish style. The focus will be on maneuvering over the keyboard, bellows control, fingering, ornamentation, phrasing, dynamics, chording, etc.
ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Before Instruments in Cavan - The Life of Master Lilter Seamus Fay (Darren Maloney)
Known as “The Cavan Lilter”, Séamus Fay hails from Drumconnick, Cavan town, where he picked up the art of lilting from listening to his mother and grandmother, both experts in the craft, and was crowned all-Ireland lilting champion in 1959,1960, 1961 and 1969. Earle Hitchner of New York’s IRISH ECHO wrote that “Séamus Fay can put to shame Irish traditional musicians half his age by dint of his inexhaustible energy, enthusiasm, and mastery of the ancient musical art known as lilting”, and that he has earned himself the title "king of the lilters." The renowned critic adds that "Séamus is an extraordinary lilter, bringing lift, rhythm, style and soul to this often overlooked art form within the Irish musical tradition." Darren will explore the life and musical contribution of this gifted man.
Emigration and the Development of Traditional Irish Music in Britain (John McEvoy)
The History of Ireland and Britain have been deeply intertwined from the earliest of times. In particular, emigration from Ireland to Britain has been a major feature of the historical and social landscape of both countries. What has been the impact of this history on traditional Irish music? This presentation will briefly discuss from a musical perspective the influence of emigration from Ireland on Irish music in Britain. Using musical examples, discussion will focus on some of the major figures who have influenced the development of traditional music both within Britain and Ireland, their influence on younger musicians and the role of traditional music among the Irish in Britain up to the present day.
Expanding the Canon of Irish music: The Music of the Sliabh Beagh Region (Seán McElwain)
Currently undertaking a research Masters in DKIT, Seán will give a lecture examining the style, repertoire and performance of traditional music in the Sliabh Beagh area during the years 1860-1970.
Gaining Confidence for Singing and Performing Songs (Michael Black)
Michael Black hails from a musical Dublin family and he grew up in a household where singing was a normal part of daily life. Both his parents were singers, as are his sisters and brothers (Mary, Frances, Shay and Martin). Now, the next generation of Black Family is bursting on to the scene with his nephews/nieces (Eoghan and Aoife Scott, Danny [The Coronas Band] and Rose O’Reilly) all becoming emerging stars in the music business. His three young daughters (and Shay’s daughter), ranging from 10-13yrs. of age, have all been performing (singing and dancing) since they were five or six. Michael borrows from the dictum of his brother Shay, which is, “if you can hum it you can sing it”. He will offer suggestions on how to encourage singing publicly and will talk and give examples on how to select and perform songs that will be received well by audiences. Topics include gaining confidence, choice of song, delivery, and identifying the appropriate setting for a particular song.
How to Work With and Play Behind Singers (John Nolan)
Most instrumentalists have trouble going beyond the melody, and playing in different keys can sometimes throw them out of orbit. John can't turn everyone into a studio musician in the space of an hour, but he plans to explore some of the "tricks of the trade" in accompanying singers that can improve your efforts. The goal is to make people a little more comfortable about working with singers without walking all over the songs.
The Irish Harp - Past and Present (Grainne Hambly)
Grainne Hambly will present a lecture/recital on the history of Ireland's national emblem, from its earliest depictions and descriptions up to the present day. Illustrated with musical examples.
Irish Music in London in the 1960's (Kevin Burke)
The 1950's and 60's were decades that saw vast numbers of people leaving Ireland. Many of these emigrants came to London and brought their music with them. Kevin Burke was lucky enough to have parents who loved traditional music, particularly the music of their native Sligo, and through them he met and played with many of the big figures in Irish music - Sean McGuire, Brendan McGlinchey, Bobby Casey, Roger Sherlock, Paddy Taylor and many more. Kevin will discuss the music and musicians from those times.
Leo Rowsome - Ireland's King of the Pipers (Tom Creegan)
The life and contribution of one one of Ireland's most famous and influential uilleann pipers is presented by Tom Creegan who has had the good fortune to own and play a set of Leo Rowsome's pipes that were made in the mid-50s.
Sligo's Musical Legacy - A Product of Local and Global Identities (Oisin Mac Diarmada)
Of the many senses of identity associated with the traditional music of Ireland, regional identity is one of the most frequently encountered. A strong element within the concept of regional style is the sense of specific local meaning. This participatory discussion examines what has been referred to as the 'Sligo style', in an attempt to analyze the continuing relevance of the local, within an increasingly globalised cultural arena.
The Traditional Flute Playing of Roscommon, Connaught and Beyond (John Wynne)
An overview of the key players, starting with Roscommon, Connaught the rest of Ireland, and featuring some oversees players with strong Irish connections. There will be comment and opinion on regional styles, techniques, ornamentation, individual virtuosity, and repetoire on the featured players.
FIDDLE
Basic Fiddle (Eric Ryan-Johnson and Gordon McLeod) -- Progressive Class
This class is intended for fiddlers who know how to play at a basic level but have limited technique and repertoire. Students will learn during each class a few simple Irish fiddle tunes by ear and by standard music notation including a waltz, a jig, and a reel. Basic bowing technique and fundamental Irish ornamentation will be introduced.
Intermediate & Advanced Irish Fiddle (Kevin Burke, Oisin Mac Diarmada, John McEvoy) -- Progressive Class
This class is intended for fiddlers who have familiarity with Irish style fiddle playing. Students will learn Irish fiddle technique including ornamentation (rolls, grace notes and bowed triplets), tone, rhythm and the more common bowing patterns used in Irish style playing. Because of class limits, you are required to take all of your fiddle classes with the teacher whose classes you initially enrolled. Before enrolling, please review the requirements for this class -- PLACEMENT CRITERIA
FLUTE
Beginner Flute & Tinwhistle (Larre Reeves) -- Progressive Class
At the begiining level, we combine tinwhistle and flute because of the similarity in fingering and ornamenation. Bring a "D" pitched whistle and/or wood or metal flute. Students will learn easy tunes using basic fingering and ornamentation.
Intermediate & Advanced Flute (John Wynne) -- Progressive Class
For the intermediate and advanced flute player, this class will explore some great tunes, focusing on rhythmic feel, tone, and basic ornamentation. We will discuss different ways to build repertoire and skill. As the class progresses, we will explore more elegant ornamentation and variation ideas for tunes.
Before enrolling, please review the requirements for this class -- PLACEMENT CRITERIA
GUITAR
Irish Guitar Fundamentals (Jeff Moore) -- Progressive Class
These classes will focus on the very basics of rhythms, using a pick, strumming, how to play a jig, reel, etc. in standard, dropped-D and DADGAD tunings, session etiquette and how prepare for playing Irish music in a session. Chord substitutions and common progressions will be covered. Students should be comfortable with basic chords and strumming.
DADGAD Guitar (Sean McElwain) -- Progressive Class
In this class, students will learn to apply DADGAD tuning to accompany Irish traditional music. The class will explore a variety of types of tunes, dynamics through syncopation and emphasis, chord substitutions and common progressions. Students should be comfortable with basic chords and strumming.
HARP
Harp (Grainne Hambly) -- Progressive Class
The harp is the most ancient and graceful of traditional Irish instruments. This class will explore the basic techniques of Irish harp playing with an introduction to the traditional repertoire including O’Carolan compositions and slow airs as well as the traditional dance repertoire.
IRISH TUNES PLAYED SLOW
Irish Tunes Played Slow
These instructor-led sessions are designed to teach new tunes and to cover some of the tunes students have already learned at the retreat. The tunes will be suggested by the students and played many times at a slow tempo and then faster so all levels of players can participate.
IRISH TUNES PLAYED UP TO SPEED
Irish Tunes Played Up to Speed
These instructor-led sessions are designed for students who are very familiar with traditional Irish music and can play tunes up to dance speeds.
KIDS FUN CAMP
Kids FUN Camp
To permit families to enjoy the retreat together, we will offer a "fun" care program for kids ages 6-10. Included in the program will be an introduction to Irish music, dance, history, language, and customs. It will also include games, arts and crafts, and storytelling. The cost is $3 per hour per child with a maximum $6 per hour per family. Payment is due at the time of last pick up each day. Kids may be dropped off as early as 9:30 a.m. and must be picked up no later than 6 p.m. Parents can withdraw their kids anytime during the day. Child sitting services will be offered during evening concerts. PLEASE NOTE: This year, enrollment in regular retreat classes is limited to youth ages 11 and older UNLESS they submit an audition tape demonstrating their ability to play at a level suitable to the class desired and a written reference from a music teacher or a non-family member familiar with the child's musical ability. Also, a parent may be required to accompany his or her child to classes.
LEARNING BY EAR
Learning by Ear (Kevin Alewine)
This class is offered for players of all instruments. The class will explore ear training and memorization tools to enhance the student’s ability to learn and retain tunes without the aid of written music or tablature.
MANDOLIN
Mandolin (Ken Fleming) -- Progressive Class
This class will explore the use of the mandolin in traditional Irish music. Particular emphasis will be placed upon proper left and right-hand techniques, ornamentation, variation, and translating concepts from other traditional instruments, pipes, fiddle, flute, whistle, etc., to the mandolin.
MUSIC THEORY
Keys, Modes and Scales -- Intro to Music Theory for Irish Players (Rick Roberts)
Using a combination of visual patterns and ear training exercises, you will learn the basic skills to recognize and understand the keys and modes commonly used in Irish traditional music. The simple relationships between keys will be explained. We will not be reading music notation. This class does not cover harmony.
Questions that students should be able to answer after this class:
PIANO
Piano (Kendall Rogers) -- Progressive Class (Electric Pianos Provided)
In this class, students will learn to accompany Irish traditional music with the piano. The class will explore a variety of types of tunes, with some attention to rhythmic variation and emphasis, basic theory as applied to Irish music and chord substitutions. Students should be comfortable with basic piano technique. The ability to maintain a strong, steady beat is essential. Some knowledge of Irish music and of music theory (especially basic chord structure and function) would be helpful but is not necessary. Bringing a tape recorder is also recommended.
PIANO ACCORDION
Piano Accordion (Mark Kenneth) -- Progressive Class
This class will explore piano accordion technique as applied to traditional celtic dance music. The various dance rhythms will be explored (jigs, reel, hornpipes) as well as fingering technique and ornamentation (triplets, grace notes). Chording and counter melody tips for accompanying singers will also be covered.
PLAYING PAIN FREE
Playing Pain Free -- How to Keep from Becoming a Musical Martyr (Robert C. Shaddox and Kathy Barnhill)
Students will understand how playing their instruments can cause pain and dysfunction in their neck, back, shoulders, elbows, wrist and hands. Students will be taught strategies that they can implement to prevent or decrease these discomforts. The instructors will use demonstration and hands on learning to re-enforce these strategies. The students will learn basic principles of body mechanics, injury prevention and exercises that they can apply to playing their instruments and broaden to other areas of their lives.
SINGING
Singing the Songs of Ireland (Michael Black) -- Progressive Class
The incredible story of Ireland is written in song, and Michael Black, a member of one of Ireland's most respected singing families, will help students explore the importance of song in the Irish music tradition. His teaching style is through learning by repetition, so no background knowledge of music theory is necessary. There are no prerequisites, and if you simply want to sing in public or in sessions, then this class is for you. Michael will teach a variety of songs (both in English and in Irish) and will suggest types of songs depending on the participant's voice. The aim of the class is to develop enough confidence to feel comfortable singing with others, and performing solo. It is a good idea to bring a recording device to help memorize melody. Michael will have plenty of lyrics but is also open to some suggestions for songs.
SOUND SYSTEM OPERATION
Basic Sound System Operation (Travis Ener) -- Progressive Class
This three-part class will examine mixers, processors, power amps, microphones, and speakers and discuss ways to improve your sound individually or for an entire ensemble and how to interface with sound engineers.
TENOR BANJO
Tenor Banjo (Darren Maloney) -- Progressive Class
This class will be a general tenor banjo class (4-string tuned in Irish style - GDAE). Darren will be looking at plectrum techniques, ornamentation, chord enhancements and, most importantly, melodic variation. Students will also learn simplistic playing styles, rhythm and syncopation, and pick tricks.
TINWHISTLE
Beginner Tinwhistle & Flute (Larre Reeves) -- Progressive Class
At the begiining level, we combine tinwhistle and flute because of the similarity in fingering and ornamenation. Bring a "D" pitched whistle and/or wood or metal flute. Students will learn easy tunes using basic fingering and ornamentation.
Intermediate & Advanced Tinwhistle (Daniel Lowery) -- Progressive Class
This class will explore the playing of traditional Irish music on the tinwhistle and low whistles at an intermediate or advanced level. Students will learn jigs, reels, hornpipes and other types of dance music while exploring the elements of Irish style on the instrument. Students will be taught techniques in fingering, tonguing, tone, breathing and ornamentation. Whistles pitched in the key of ‘D’ are essential. Low whistles will also be covered. Before enrolling, please review the requirements for this class -- PLACEMENT CRITERIA
TUNE AND SONG TUSSLE
Tune & Song Tussle -- Two Rehearsals & One Performance
This is a fun way to perform with an ensemble at the retreat. Those who sign up will be assigned to one of several groups. Each group will have a coach instructor who will help prepare the group for a contest to be held Saturday night. Awards will be given
and the top award will be given for "most entertaining." A great way to meet other players at the retreat, and perform for the entire camp! You must attend the two scheduled rehearsals (and others the group may plan) and perform with your group on Saturday evening. Click here for more details.
UILLEANN PIPES
Uilleann Pipes (Tom Creegan) -- Progressive Class
These classes, taught in a series by Tom Creegan, will examine what makes the uilleann pipes special. Why are they different from other woodwind instruments used in Irish music? How can the piper maximize the benefit? Tom will expand and illustrate these concepts. The class will discuss and draw up a list of the techniques that make the sound of good piping so appealing. Students should bring, at a minimum, a practice set with a satisfactory playing chanter reed.