An immersive and historical introduction to Irish Traditional Music
John Ryan, Instructor
Quarter 4: Saturdays, April 12, 2025 through June 14, 2025
2:00-3:00 pm
Ages 10 to adult
Tin whistle needed - see note below
Do Irish jigs and reels get your toes tapping? Join us for the latest addition to Hochstein’s suite of group music classes!
During this 9-week introductory session, students will learn the fundamental structures and rhythms of Irish music, and foster a familiarity with the history and masters of the tradition who have brought it into the present day. Following the successful model in Irish primary schools, each student receives instruction in the basics of that humblest of instruments – the omnipresent tin whistle – to give structure to the song-tunes, jigs, and polkas that make up the beginner’s repertoire.
Students will acquire an understanding of the music’s nature and practice, an appreciation of the music as a living and social art, and a basis for the many lessons that the tin whistle has to offer. This course is geared toward both the casual student of history and those looking to progress to any of the other instruments in the tradition. Pure beginners and intermediate musicians alike are welcome.
Additional options on other traditional instruments - including fiddle, button accordion, bodhrán, Irish flute, tenor banjo/mandolin, concertina, and uilleann pipes - to be offered at a later date, based on interest.