“Cancelled”
Ceol na Coille Irish Music Summer School 2020
Due to the Covid 19 Pandemic, Ceol na Coille Summer School 2020 will not take place this year.
In these unprecedented times, the health and safety of students, tutors and the local community is of utmost concern. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but feel this is the correct action to be taken.
Our dates for 2021 are 12th-16th July. 2021 will be our 10th anniversary year and with an even bigger ‘Jammed Packed’ program of events, we hope to welcome you all again.
Take Care and Stay Safe
Monday 13th to Friday 17th July, Venue: Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny
Welcome to the Ceol na Coille’s 9th Annual Summer School of Irish Traditional Music in Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, in association with Craobh Seamus Mac Giolla Bhríde CCE.
The Summer School comprises a 5-day programme of workshops, recitals, sessions and concerts.
Learn Irish Traditional Music, Song in a county known for its culture, its beauty and friendliness. We welcome enthusiasts – adults and children from beginners to advanced levels on a full range of instruments, and boast a list of first-class tutors. A busy programme of classes, workshops, recitals, nightly sessions and concerts. Immerse yourself in Irish Traditional Music song and Gaeilge in a fun, relaxed and welcoming environment amid some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland – a great week of music and fun for all.
Instruments include – Uilleann Pipes, Fiddle, Whistle, Flute, Concertina, Harp, Guitar and Piano Accompaniment, Button & Piano Accordion, Banjo, Bodhrán, Traditional Singing and Irish Language classes – for all ages.
We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of tuition in all our classes and activities!
- Children, Adults & Beginners welcome
- Family & Group Discounts available
More information about this years tutors can be seen here Tutors.
Classes : Venue – Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny
Intermediate & Advanced Classes (All Ages)
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-4pm Where: Colaiste Ailigh Fee: €150 BOOK NOW!
What: These classes cater for those who have some level of proficiency in Traditional Music and who wish to either rekindle their musical flame or further develop their instrumental skills. The programme provides a high level of specialist tuition provided by some of our finest Traditional performers.
Adult Beginner (Mixed Instrumental)
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-4pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: €150 BOOK NOW!
What: These classes cater for Adults who already have had some exposure to music and wish to develop their skills. Classes are mixed instrumental, and again are delivered in a fun and encouraging environment.
CPD Summer Course for Teachers – Traditional Irish Music
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-4pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: €100 BOOK NOW!
What: This course is suitable for Primary School Teachers and is DES approved. The course offers an integrated approach to Irish Music Pedagogy by enhancing the delivery of the music curriculum for children aged 6 – 12. More Info:
Traditional Singing Workshop (Irish & English) with Deirdre Scanlan
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-4pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: €150 BOOK NOW!
Trad Camp – For Kids!
Introduction to Irish Traditional Music (5-7 & 7-9yrs)
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-1pm Where: Colaiste Ailigh Fee: €100 BOOK NOW!
What: These classes are designed to give your child an opportunity to try different instruments without the expense of purchasing one. The course introduces children to traditional music and a wide range of instruments in a relaxed and welcoming environment. (Limited Spaces)
Improvers Classes Kids (9yrs+)
When: 13th – 17th July, 10am-1pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: €100 BOOK NOW!
What: These classes cater for young musicians who already have had some exposure to music and wish to develop their skills in a fun and encouraging environment.
Club Gaelach (6+ years)
When: 13th – 17th July, 1.20pm – 4pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: €50 BOOK NOW!
What: Fun activities through the medium of Irish ‘Spraoi le Club Gaelach Ailigh G’ This is for the pupils attending the Introduction to music and Improvers classes. The classes will give the pupils an opportunity to take part in activities through the medium of Irish. Activities include music, sport and art.
Join the Fun!
Daily Recitals
When: Monday 13th – Thursday 16th July, 3-4pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: Free
What: Daily Recitals by Summer School Tutors and invited guest musicians
Concerts 2020
Ceolchoirm le Ceol na Coille – In association with the Regional Cultural Centre
When: Thursday 16th July 8pm Where: Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny
What: Traditional Concert featuring Summer School Tutors Dermot Byrne – Button Accordion with Yvonne Casey – Fiddle plus Hamish Napier – Flute, Whistles, Piano and Vocals with Innes Watson – Guitar, Fiddle.
Farewell Concert
When: Friday 17th July, 1.30pm Where: Coláiste Ailigh Fee: Free (open to Public)
What: Final Concert of the summer school featuring performances by students and tutors!
Session Trail
McCafferty’s Bar – Lower Main Street
McGinley’s
Blake’s
Junior Session in Regional Cultural Centre 5-7pm Monday 13th-Thursday 16th
Enjoy the experience!
Our programme offers you the opportunity to partake in sessions, concerts and recitals and to experience Irish Culture in an authentic and intimate setting.
It is delivered by nationally renowned and highly-qualified tutors, experts in the traditional genre and is led by musician and former All-Ireland Champion for both Uilleann Pipes and Piano Accordion, Paul Harrigan, a native of Donegal and founder of Ceol na Coille.Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, small group or family Ceol na Coille will work with you to ensure that your time spent in Donegal enables you to sample the best of our musical traditions.