The Ceol na Coille Summer School of Irish traditional music in Letterkenny is now established as part of the summer scene along the Wild Atlantic Way.
And the school’s got an additional boost this year after Donegal was named the world’s coolest place to visit by National Geographic.
Ceol na Coille runs from Monday 10th to Friday 14th July 2017.
Summer school director Inishowen native Paul Harrigan says it’s looking like another record-breaking year.
“This is our sixth Ceol na Coille and it’s getting bigger and better every year,” he said. “We’re in the heart of Donegal, which is famous for its traditional music. We have a great team of tutors and we pride ourselves on being friendly and welcoming.”
Ceol na Coille is based at Coláiste Ailigh in Letterkenny, a state-of-the-art Irish language secondary school. It’s the perfect spot to host classes, workshops and recitals.
There are workshops, free recitals, nightly sessions and concerts throughout the week in Letterkenny during the summer school allowing participants of all ages to get involved and develop their music skills.
The long list of tutors includes many familiar names. The fiddle teachers this year include Gerry O’Connor and former Altan-er Paul O’Shaughnessy.
Other visiting tutors include the acclaimed uilleann piper Padraig McGovern from Cavan, accordionist Martin Quinn and one of Ireland’s leading harpers Cormac de Barra.
There is also bodhrán and traditional percussion classes with Robbie Harris from supergroup AfroCelt Sound System.
But Inishowen and Donegal itself has lots to offer students of trad, with tutors such as John Lee (flute), Michael Carey (whistle), Joleen ‘Henry’ McLaughlin (harp), Roisin McGrory Fiddle, Clodagh Warnock Fiddle, Edel McLaughlin Accordion and lots more.
Ceol na Coille is also delighted to have Gradam Ceoil 2017 winner and Altan founding member – Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh – hosting a special traditional singing workshop.
Ceol na Coille prides itself on being a family friendly summer school which features a Trad Camp for kids – ‘introduction to music’, beginner level workshops and Club Gaelach. Intermediate and advanced level tuition for students of all ages. Adult beginner classes, on a range of instruments, and also an Irish language class for adults.
For teachers, there’s a week long course approved by the Department of Education and Skills, delivered by Dr Orfhlaith Ní Bhriain of the Univeristy of Limerick.
For more information go to www.ceolnacoille.ie