Deadline: Saturday, October 7th, 2023
The O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat is a learning environment that teaches the fundamentals of traditional Irish music on a variety of instruments. It is a continuation of a tradition that started long ago in Ireland as the music was passed down from one generation to another to preserve it. An important part of the retreat’s mission is to award scholarships based on financial need to selected students who demonstrate musical ability with the potential for excelling within the Irish music tradition.
To apply for a scholarship, go to APPLICATION.
PLEASE NOTE: Do not enroll until your scholarship has been approved. You will receive a unique code that you must use during enrollment that will reduce your costs based on the type of scholarship awarded. Online registration begins at 9 a.m. (CDT), Saturday, June 10th.
Application Requirements
Applicants must already play an instrument and would benefit by attending the retreat. A letter of recommendation by the applicant’s instructor or a person (not a family member) who is deemed qualified to assess the musical ability of applicant is required. In lieu of a letter, an applicant may send a recording of his or her playing, singing or dancing. It is not required that the applicant perform Irish music on the recording.
Additionally, a statement of financial need must be submitted with the application by the applicant or, if a minor, by his or her parent or guardian. All financial information submitted will be confidentially held. Please be specific as possible so it will be easier for the Retreat Director to evaluate the financial needs of the applicant.
What’s Included in the Scholarships
There are two scholarships available. Full scholarships are awarded that cover the three-day weekend tuition, lodging (dorm bed or tent camping site) and meals of the scholarship recipient. Partial scholarships are awarded that cover all or a percentage of the tuition. The type of scholarship that is awarded to a particular student is determined by the Retreat Director and the availability of the scholarships. The scholarships will not cover the non-student costs of accompanying parents or guardians (i.e., meals and lodging).
Process for Submission
A completed and signed application with a letter of recommendation and statement of need must be submitted no later than Saturday, October 7th, 2023. Because we have a limited number of scholarships to award, please submit an application as soon as possible. You should not register online until the scholarship is approved, otherwise, you must pay your tuition in full and then be reimbursed if and when the scholarship is approved.
Mail, fax or email documents to:
O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat
1320 Navaho Trail
Richardson, TX 75080
Fax: (972) 416-8992
Email: director@oflahertyretreat.org
To discuss scholarships, call (469) 215-1840 or email the Retreat Director at director@oflahertyretreat.org. Upon receipt of the scholarship application, the Retreat Director will make a decision within two days and then inform the applicant of the decision.
Requirement to Assist During Event
All of our scholarship students or, if considered too young, their parents or guardians are asked to assist the retreat in support of our program. Examples of such assistance include working at the retreat office, at the retreat booth, at the performers’ sales table during evening concerts, or helping set up the retreat or helping tear down when it is over. You will be contacted prior to the retreat and a schedule will be arranged. If the student’s schedule does not permit assistance, it will have no effect on their scholarships.