Brian will teach about 5 to 7 tunes, with an emphasis on exploring what makes a tune–and your playing–sound “Irish.” Each tune will be broken down into its components–phrases, articulations, timing. Sheet music will be provided. We’ll dig deep into bowing, phrasing, and ornamentation.
Introduction to BodhránWe’ll discover how it’s best for you to hold the bodhrán and the tipper in order to render the best sound qualities from your drumming and to avoid repetitive strain injuries. We’ll discuss and practice some safe practicing techniques, including stretches for the bodhrán player. We’ll also cover Read more…
This class is all about getting the feel, pulse and flow of Irish music into your mandolin playing. We’ll focus on understanding and developing techniques for playing the many forms of Irish dance music on the mandolin – jigs, reels, slip jigs, hop jigs, polkas, slides, waltzes, etc. We will Read more…
Trad GuitarThis class will concentrate on issues of backing traditional Irish music on the guitar. We’ll learn rhythm & feel as well as appropriate harmonic choices. Different voicing approaches will also be discussed. All common tunings are welcome – standard, dropped D, DADGAD, etc – but players should be able Read more…
Turlach will lead students on an expedition in search of elusive musical ‘lift’. Expect to work on breathing, articulation, diaphragm control and ornamentation, while learning new tunes that emphasize these techniques. Students will learn by ear, and should bring a recording device and safari hat.
Tenor Banjo ClassDuring the week, students will undertake an in-depth exploration of playing Irish traditional music on tenor banjo. Topics will include both right hand and left hand techniques, melodic and rhythmic variation, and use of instrument dynamics. The goal will be to learn ways to take banjo playing beyond Read more…