'I really enjoyed this course. In such a short space of time I feel I have learned loads, and I look forward to improving.'
– L. Butler
'The tuition was excellent. I learned a lot in a positive and pleasant way.'
– D. Brennan
'When I took music lessons as a child I hated the regimen of scales, etc. with no tunes. In ten weeks I can play five tunes that folks can recognise.'
– N. Traynor
The Irish fidil (the name derives from Vitula, the Roman goddess of victory and jubilation) has existed in one form or another for nearly a thousand years. It is not clear precisely what kind of instrument the early fiddles were, and today’s fiddle is actually a classical violin, introduced here from Italy around the middle of the sixteenth century – although the way it is held and the methods of playing it are very different. In any case the fiddle is arguably the most widely-used instrument in the performance of traditional music. Introducing Fiddle, aimed at students who have never picked up a fiddle before, introduces them to the basics of playing this subtle and demanding instrument – holding, bowing, fingering, etc. – and guides them through the main forms of traditional music (jigs, reels, hornpipes, airs, etc.), including some of their many variations. Regional and individual playing styles will also be covered, giving the student an important first source of repertoire.
Introducing Fiddle is one of our group courses for beginners. Private, partner, group and intensive fiddle lessons are also available for students at all levels, from beginner to advanced. Go to Departments & Faculty - Traditional Instruments for more information.
First Term Schedule & Fee
10 weeks, October 6 – December 15, 2010
(No class on October 27)
Wednesdays 7 – 8 pm
Tuition Fee: €170
Sinéad Madden, Teacher
Sinéad Madden started playing the fiddle at the age of seven and went on to study both classical piano and violin, all the while playing numerous fleadhs and sessions nationwide. After moving to Dublin in 1994, she studied music at Trinity College, Dublin, graduating with a BA. During this time she began a performing career that has included collaborations and performances with such artists as Moya Brennan (Clannad), Jim McCann (The Dubliners) and Aoife ni Feartagh. Sinéad has guested with various artists such as ten-time All-Ireland champion Seamus Connolly and the Dublin City Orchestra and played support to the legendary Drifters frontman Ben E. King. Her recent musical projects include the solo album Honey Promises (2009), The Beehive Suite, with uilleann piper Darach De Brún, and Urbanethnic, with the Dublin-based group Rinka. Sinéad has toured extensively in Scandinavia, Asia, America and Europe and has taught fiddle both in Ireland and abroad. She teaches both group and individual fiddle classes at the New School, and co-facilitates our Sounds Irish outreach workshop.
Enrolment
Enrolment for this course requires a completed enrolment form and full payment of tuition fees. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the date of enrolment. Early enrolment is recommended, as places are limited to eight.
Purchasing this course as a gift? Download a gift certificate booking form.
Recommended Instruments
If you do not already have an instrument for this course, please note that Waltons music shops offer suitable instruments at special discounts for students starting tuition at the New School. Go to Recommended Instruments for more information.
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