Ceol Na Mara Summer School for Strings in Connemara, Co.Galway. Ireland

Ceol na Mara Adult

This course is suited to the more mature non professional or semi professional musician who enjoys playing music on a regular basis. Age is irrelevant, enthusiasm is vital!

Although there are no exam requirements, in order to achieve maximum benefit from the course, we recommend that you have:

  • Fluency in reading music
  • Reached a level of proficiency in your instrument equivalent to approximately grade 5 minimum.
  • Some experience playing in an orchestra or chamber group OR that you take (or give) lessons on a fairly regular basis.


Ceol na Mara Adult
Ceol na Mara Adult
Ceol na Mara Adult

The course will include :

Orchestra:An opportunity to play in a chamber orchestra, made up of students from the Advanced, Adult and Intermediate groups to learn a variety of music for string orchestra, some of which will be performed at the end of the week.

Chamber music: where smaller ensembles will be formed suited to each individual’s level to explore some different styles of chamber music while improving sight- reading and listening skills.

Traditional Irish music: This is a chance to learn some of the wonderful Irish airs and dances. This class is a great way to develop the ear as it is primarily learnt by listening and repeating. If by any chance you play a second instrument such as concertina, or tin whistle, these will be very welcome in these classes.

Warm ups/ brain games/ improvisation : a big favourite with the younger group last year, by popular demand Lisa has suggested expanding the class so everyone can be  involved! The emphasis is on fun but it will also stimulate concentration, rhythm and communication!

Sean Nós dancing: Amy will be teaching them some steps in the Connemara 'Sean Nos' style. This is a class that is a lot of fun as well as giving a great insight into a great local tradition.

Music Appreciation : Sheila will lead the groups in an interactive exploration of various styles of music and the meaning behind the notes.

*the sean nos dancing and music appreciation classes are open to parents/family members of participants, at no additional cost. (no prior music or dancing experience necessary!)

On the final day, Friday, we will have an orchestral concert in the afternoon to which parents and friends are invited.

The overall final Ceol na Mara concert will take place on Friday at 6:30pm in the Teach Ceoil, Tully which will be open to the general public. A representative group from the class will be asked to perform at this also. All participants in Ceol na Mara are invited to attend.

Schedule:
Sunday 31st July: afternoon (time tbc):classes begin, venue: Connemara west centre
Monday 1st Aug - Thursday 4th Aug : classes continue 10am - 12:30 & 1:15 - 3:15
Friday 5th: classes: 10am - 12:00,
12:30 : Junior concert (to be attended by all other Ceol na Mara students) followed by Orchestra concert (made up of Intermediate, Advanced and adult students)

Cost: €350


There will be a reduction of €50 for second and subsequent family members taking part. Payment can be made in full on application or in two parts - half on application and the balance before June 30th.

Application forms can be downloaded Download Application Form and posted along with cheque made out to 'Ceol na Mara' to :

Oonagh Keogh
2 The Brook, Huntsfield,
Dooradoyle, Co Limerick.

Alternatevely you can make your booking online Book On-line




Sponsored by:
ICO The Arts Souncil
Letterfrack is situated beneath the Diamond Mountain, next door to the Connemara National Park and leads into the Renvyle Peninsula.