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Irish Traditional Music 101

An immersive and historical introduction to Irish Traditional Music

John Ryan, Instructor
Quarter 2: Saturdays, November 9, 2024 through January 25, 2025
1:00-2:00 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 in Quarter 2, based on interest.

Fee: $20 registration fee, $180 per 9-week session. For students enrolled in individual lessons at Hochstein, the reduced tuition is $135 per session. (Fees are as of Fall 2024.)

 

Click here for information about our Tuition Assistance.


Irish Traditional Music 201 - Continuing Whistle

John Ryan, Instructor
Quarter 2: Saturdays, November 9-January 25, 2025
2:00-3:00 pm
Ages 10 and up
Pre-requisite: Irish Trad 101 or permission of instructor

Students pick up right where Trad 101 left off, expanding their range on the instrument, improving their articulation, and adding the grace notes that make Irish music sing.

Fee: $20 registration fee, $180 per 9-week session. For students enrolled in individual lessons at Hochstein, the reduced tuition is $135 per session. (Fees are as of Fall 2024.)

Register Now Online

Tin Whistle Needed

NOTE: Students will need to have their own instruments, so please plan to purchase a tin whistle in the key of D (nickel or brass) in advance of the first class. You can purchase one at a discount through Bernunzio Uptown Music at 122 East Avenue in Rochester, 585.473.6140. Click here to order a whistle on Bernunzio's website. The cost is $10.99. You can order online and then pick it up in the store. (There is an additional charge to have it shipped).

If you have questions about an appropriate instrument, feel free to email the instructor directly at john.ryan@hochstein.org.