Teaching Faculty
Waltons New School of Music
‘Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.’
– Japanese Proverb
‘It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.’
– Albert Einstein
Peter is a great clarinet teacher, who is always trying to make you think about what you are studying in new ways. As a result, my online lessons are very engaging. He has an amazing knowledge of both the history and theory of music and combines these eloquently to help you think through what you are studying. The result is that you discover new music which encourages you to practice, and you never know – maybe someday you could play this? You guys are lucky to have such a great teacher. I look forward to my lesson every week!
My 7-year-old could not get enough of the [Introducing Violin for Children] classes. She never wanted to miss her class, where she learnt how to play the violin and made friends.
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the singing/voice classes [Summer Singing for Adults] I have taken with Fiadh Rua Gregg: the mix of exercises, technical knowledge and skills, learning new songs, and the experience of singing with other people. I also enjoyed listening to and learning from other people in the group. I have learned so much about my voice, and I really value this learning – considering how much I use my voice in my work.
The whole experience has been deeply enriching. I appreciated how Fiadh pitched and paced each class with a blend of tasks that provided a challenge while also offering a sense of achievement. While I attended all classes online, I felt very much part of a group, and this was due to Fiadh’s skill as a teacher, as she created such an encouraging, facilitative and supportive atmosphere. I had wanted to take singing/voice classes for years, and I’m so glad I did!
Great fun, amazing teacher, loved every class! [Introducing Ukulele for Adults]
The teacher’s enthusiasm and patience, and sensitivity to the varied standards of playing within the group, allows everyone to reach a satisfying standard of music making. A great opportunity to experience ensemble music making where the whole becomes greater than the parts! [Flute Ensemble]
I could do this course [Musical Theatre Workshop] all year long. Sinéad pushes and pulls you to do your best. The feeling of achievement is ‘grandiose’!
I love my voice teacher. She’s really friendly and thoughtful, and I enjoy studying with her so much!
Great school. Very good, caring teachers make learning enjoyable.
Fun, challenging…with lots of good singing. The choir has improved my confidence, and I’m always in a good mood when the class is over. Cathy great! [Sing Your Heart Out Choir]
My daughter attended Waltons for the introductory guitar course [Introducing Guitar for Children] and has continued with an improvers course for almost two years. She really enjoys it. Her teacher is great – very calm, encouraging and patient, and he doesn’t talk down to them. Every week I see progress and her personal pride in playing a little more accurately and fluidly each time. The atmosphere in the building from all staff is one of professionalism, kindness and welcome.
My [violin] teacher…is passionate about teaching and loves to help her students progress. I have learned so much since I started and am now a much better player.
The teacher does a brilliant job with the [Musical Explorations (Ages 5-6)] course. Each child is listened to and well looked after, whether the classes are in the school or online. My son loves the course and has learned lots of new things. He looks forward to every Saturday.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the Art & Craft of Songwriting workshop. I thoroughly enjoyed the course, and it completely exceeded any expectations that I had. The teacher’s experience and encouragement meant that we each left more confident in ourselves and in our abilities to create music.
Great school with really great teachers, who have a lovely way with children. We would definitely recommend! [mother of Introducing Violin for Children student]
I’ve really enjoyed my piano lessons with Dan. He is very creative, with an ‘out of the box’ approach, and with his patience made me feel comfortable from the very beginning. I am starting to feel a lot more confident and have a better musical mindset. [online student]
I have a very friendly and understanding voice teacher. I learned a lot from the lessons, and she has a wealth of knowledge. She approached the lessons with ease, and I felt comfortable singing with her. I looked forward to my lessons every week and I would highly recommend her to other students who wish to pursue voice/singing lessons. I also like that there are both online and in-person tuition options. I found it difficult to find online singing lessons, and it was very beneficial for me as I do not live in the greater Dublin area and I am on the move a lot. Waltons New School of Music offers a great range of subjects and a large variety of instruments to learn. The enrolment process was straightforward, and their communication regarding enrolment and finalising lessons was very quick and efficient.
Very friendly and professional school, with great staff.
I always wanted to sing but thought I didn’t have a note in my head. With the help and patience of my [voice] teacher I now believe that I can and am loving it.
Very well taught! Notes are easy to understand, and it definitely boosts your confidence towards the exam. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
John Sweeney is an excellent, inspirational tin whistle teacher. I have learned so much from him, and he has instilled in me a love of music, which I am so grateful for. I would recommend John to anyone interested in learning the tin whistle.
Great intro course. Great teacher, staff and location. Great experience! [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
Very well explained by an interested and enthusiastic teacher. [Introducing Music Technology]
Fiddle is a tough instrument to start as a beginner, and this course [Introducing Irish Fiddle] shows that it’s actually quite manageable! The teacher is really nice and helpful and patient.
My [piano] teacher was very encouraging and interested in progressing her student.
Sinéad Flynn is a fantastic [voice] teacher. Her vast knowledge of the musical theatre repertoire helps you choose pieces that suit your voice and helps you to make the most of your potential as a singer.
I have an excellent [voice] teacher. She is very encouraging and has a lot of insight into the individual student’s problems and how to improve them.
Excellent online tuition and fabulous tin whistle teacher. Harry’s huge background knowledge, passion for his craft, patience and approach to encouraging a learner like me to gain confidence and improve has inspired me to continue and become the best player I can be.
I’ve gained so much since I’ve taken [Musical Theatre Workshop] classes here. My confidence has grown immensely, and I’ve come on as both a singer and performer. Sinéad is an amazing teacher who has pushed me out of my comfort zone and believed in me so that I can reach my full potential and be the best performer that I can possibly be.
I honestly didn’t think I would get so much out of online singing lessons, but my teacher’s just brilliant and I have learned loads. I live much too far from Dublin to come to the school on a regular basis, so online tuition has been a great experience for me.
The very positive approach by the teacher was so encouraging! [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
Great foundation for a jazz beginner. The teacher has a very positive, open and encouraging approach. [Jazz Piano Basics]
Sinéad is the best voice teacher I’ve ever had. In a few months, I’ve built up so much confidence in my voice and I can really hear how I’ve improved. I get to work at my own pace and have had the chance to sing some of my favourite pieces too. If you want to work on both technique and mindset, then I highly recommend Sinéad’s tutoring.
A pleasure to spend an hour doing something different with a genuinely passionate musician and totally nice bloke. [Irish Music Tasters]
Enjoyed every [voice] lesson due to the support and encouragement, energy and enthusiasm of my teacher.
David is a truly fantastic violin teacher. He is full of enthusiasm and has great patience, keeping the lessons fun while progress is being made. I would recommend Waltons New School of Music because of its great teachers, very accessible location, and good communication from the school.
The [Trad Guitar Basics] course tutor is excellent and also very flexible. He knows how to bring someone up to speed if they fall behind in class. Very enjoyable as well as instructive.
I like that Ana told me when I was doing it wrong and didn’t beat around the bush. She also used great metaphors to help me visualise how to sing. For example, ‘Imagine you’re trying to land your voice on that wall.’ Statements like that really help to visualise how to sing. Also, she has so much knowledge about singing. [voice student]
Harry is a great teacher, with a passion for Irish music that is infectious. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
I have loved working at my own pace without any pressure or set songs I must learn. My [voice] teacher is incredibly understanding and wonderful to work with. It is refreshing to be taught by someone with a real passion for their skill.
John was very passionate about music and made me love playing the guitar. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
John is a master of many styles of guitar playing – Irish traditional, flamenco, jazz, rock, you name it – and his enthusiasm for all kinds of music is infectious. This series of classes [Trad Guitar Basics] was very informative and fun to attend, and it gave me the basis for practice and improvement over the coming months. I enjoyed them greatly.
I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of learning and developing a new skill. This was further enhanced by the enthusiasm, motivation and continual encouragement and support of the teacher. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
I asked Waltons New School of Music if they could help through their Music at Work programme with a corporate meeting using bodhráns to demonstrate the power of rhythm in a business context. The process was a real pleasure, and everyone I dealt with was knowledgeable and helpful. The session itself was facilitated by Éamonn Galldubh. Ahead of time, Éamonn quickly understood what we wanted to achieve and worked collaboratively on ideas to make the session a success. On the day he quickly established both his credibility and a rapport with the audience. He was a fantastic teacher, had just the right balance of humour, understood perfectly the messages we wanted to incorporate and worked seamlessly with the team without any rehearsal.
The session was a resounding success and exceeded my expectations; our team not only got the messages but had so much fun to boot. Waltons handled all the logistics, and I would recommend them to anyone considering a similar event. A first class service. [Irish Music Tasters]
We have been here for three years now, and our kids are very happy in Waltons and with their teachers. The teaching at Waltons is a professional combination of enjoyment and tuition. As a result, both my children have been inspired by their teachers to practice their instruments. Playing guitar or drums is not a chore anymore but has become a passion for them.
Relaxed but progressive atmosphere. Excellent tuition. Professional teacher. [Introducing Singing for Adults]
Excellent [voice] teacher. Excellent school. Thanks for giving me the confidence to get in touch with my real singing voice. Music is one of the greatest gifts we have been blessed with.
The lesson was very good and the teacher was great, encouraging and relaxed. [Irish Music Tasters]
My singing teacher is very professional and knowledgeable and tailored my lessons to suit my needs. She is also easy to build a rapport with.
Excellent online course, great teacher, highly recommended. [Summer Music Technology Essentials]
I really appreciate the energy that the teacher brings to the [Introducing Irish Fiddle] classes, which are always really enjoyable. Also, for an intro level course, we have really progressed quickly. We always got personal feedback despite it being a group class, which I greatly appreciate.
My online singing lessons with the New School over the past few months have been a revelation! I know it can take people a bit of time to get used to online learning, but I have an excellent teacher who explained everything so clearly and listened to my singing so intently that I honestly prefer online lessons to in-person now. And the best part of it is that I have no commute!
I’m back home from Dublin. It was a most pleasant stay, but the high point of it was my bodhrán lesson. I have this personality disorder that manifests itself in collecting instruments and trying to learn them, mostly on my own. Being able to take even just one lesson with a real expert (and a most able teacher), is invaluable. Hope I’ll be back soon! [Irish Music Tasters]
What I most liked about my voice lessons was the teacher’s skills and open attitude towards the student as a unique individual, as well as her friendly and compassionate manner. This school really stands out for the positive and friendly attitude of all the people who work there, from the teachers to the people at reception, which creates a safe environment to learn and have some fun!
Very enthusiastic and able teacher. Go raibh maith agat! [Trad Guitar Basics]
Really super lessons, both in person and online. Studying voice musical theatre with Sinéad Flynn has been such an enriching experience. She has a lovely manner, very encouraging and still critical and pushing me to improve. I have learnt so much in the past 18 months, and the lessons have done wonders for my confidence. I’m even taking exams in my forties!
Dedicated and excellent choir director/tutor. [Sing Your Heart Out Choir]
My banjo teacher is both patient and encouraging, and the lessons are very informative. I’m very happy with my online lessons and plan to continue.
I have a great piano teacher, very patient and very encouraging. The lessons are well organised, and it is very easy to enrol. I especially like that you offer online tuition. Thanks to my teacher and everyone else at the school!
When I started my violin lessons, it was a welcoming reintroduction which took away plenty of nerves. My teacher Gabriele Braga was very observant about many things that I had overlooked or hadn’t been told when I was a kid/teenager, not to mention being so approachable with any questions. I would highly recommend his mentorship to anyone in the same situation as me when it comes to making the decision to try learning the violin again. For an adult student, having a supportive, positive teacher is such a plus. I’ve been very lucky having Gabriele to guide me, and I hope to continue with him.
I have been studying singing with Waltons for three years now, and I have found it to be such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. My voice has really improved, and both the teaching standard and professionalism of the school are very high. My teacher Sinéad Flynn has been particularly helpful to me, and I really enjoy my lessons!
The teacher was very easy to understand and was willing to answer any questions. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Very relaxed, friendly approach. Paddy encourages everyone to ask questions and is great at demonstrating. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
Excellent teaching, and easy learning techniques. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
I can’t speak too highly of Waltons New School of Music and of Paddy Kiernan’s tuition for the banjo. I love what I am learning and go away from each [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class more motivated to learn.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Art & Craft of Songwriting workshop with Melanie O’Reilly. I found the content very interesting and informative, and I’m continuously putting it into practice in my writing. Melanie is a brilliant teacher, enjoyable and fun to listen to. She has so much knowledge and experience, and the course has helped me to get a grasp on how to go about writing a song with a structure. It was also a lovely way of meeting people with similar interests, and we still keep in touch. I would highly recommend the course.
I had no music background, but the teacher was very helpful and made it very enjoyable. I really enjoyed the [Introducing Violin for Adults] classes. Thanks!
Anyone can learn the guitar. All you need is a willingness to learn and a professional teacher from Waltons New School of Music. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
Dav is a very talented [voice] teacher who is especially skilled in dealing with adult students.
Really enjoyed the [Trad Guitar Basics] course and John – he is a wealth of knowledge!
My daughter has a wonderful violin teacher here. She certainly has the knowledge and expertise, but most importantly she knows how to work with children and motivate them to stick with it. We’ll be back.
I found the [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] classes so enjoyable, and I looked forward to our group lesson every week. The teacher was excellent, with a relaxed and kind approach which helped settle any nerves. I’m so glad I decided to give it a go and will definitely continue with lessons.
I’m finding [Introducing Violin for Adults] very enjoyable and not at all intimidating. The teacher makes us feel at ease as we learn the violin.
We have an excellent teacher. Huge preparation and effort goes into each class [of the Introducing Guitar for Adults course], and he worked with the class to see which songs we would like to learn. We came away with party pieces to play, but also a technical understanding of the instrument, reading music, and different techniques. I have recommended him to so many family members and friends. Well worth doing this online course. Thanks!
An excellent teacher with so much to give. [The Art & Craft of Songwriting]
I have wanted to do a music technology course for years but the opportunity didn’t come up until I saw that Waltons were offering an online version of their Introducing Music Technology course. Signing up was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I thoroughly enjoyed the course. My zero experience in recording music was no problem because it is tailored for beginners, and looking back on how much I learned in such a short space of time is incredible! The teacher is very friendly, helpful, and explains things in a clear and concise way. I would highly recommend this course to anyone with an interest in the subject!
The [Introducing Guitar for Adults] tutor is excellent, patient and easy to understand. He makes the class very enjoyable. I also really like the friendly atmosphere in the school. All of the staff are very helpful and professional.
I thoroughly enjoyed my Intensive Lesson with Dav. I honestly thought I was incapable of singing, and she changed my mind on that!
I’ve been taking online trad flute lessons with Waltons for the past few months, and I’ve been very impressed both by the quality of my online tuition and by the kindness and expertise of my teacher. Not only is he a wonderful player and educator, but he’s also a fount of knowledge both about trad flute and about Irish music in in general. I’d highly recommend lessons here.
I really enjoy working with my [voice] teacher – she is wonderful. I very much like the atmosphere at Waltons, as do my family. I look forward to next term and to improving my voice and technique.
John is a great teacher who found many ways to describe the techniques required. This resourcefulness was so helpful to our understanding. [Introducing Bodhrán]
The [Introducing Irish Fiddle] teacher was excellent, very encouraging and with endless patience.
I’ve really enjoyed learning a new instrument and new songs, as well as the group camaraderie. The teacher is very patient! [Introducing Ukulele for Adults]
My voice teacher has been so helpful, and patient and generous with advice regarding singing techniques and working on song choices. Regarding the school as a whole, the administration is very helpful and teachers very accommodating to students’ intentions and goals.
Learning the fiddle was a really positive and worthwhile experience. The tuition was pitched perfectly for beginners, and the teacher is exceptional. Thank you. [Introducing Irish Fiddle]
My child benefited from individual attention from an excellent teacher in a small group. [Introducing Violin for Children]
I’m a mature student with limited time to play an instrument, and Waltons have been great…. I’ve had a talented and very encouraging teacher, I’m so glad I took up violin, and I plan to continue. Thanks!
I’m writing about the wonderful Tin Whistle Taster my family recently had at the New School. I can’t recommend the experience highly enough. Two adults and two children were kept entertained and engaged, and we learned so much not only about tin whistle playing but about Irish music in general in a short space of time. Éamonn is clearly not only a great musician but also a gifted, natural teacher – someone who can connect with people of all ages. We’ll definitely be back for a Bodhrán Taster the next time we visit Ireland! [Irish Music Tasters]
My singing teacher is very motivational and passionate about music. I found the lessons at Waltons a valuable learning experience and great fun at the same time. Highly recommended.
Great experience – highly recommend it. Excellent teacher and notes, very well explained and easy to understand. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
So-Young is a great teacher who really personalises her jazz piano lessons to cater to each student – what they want to learn, their strengths & weaknesses, etc. Lessons were very fun and had a good mix of comping and soloing. The school as whole has a great location, wonderful staff, high quality lessons and in-school resources.
As a non-neurotypical learner, I was able to learn music technology and DAWs (I focused on Logic Pro) with a patient teacher at a pace that suited my needs, and I progressed well. I look forward to continued progress!
An incredible player and inspiring teacher! [Introducing World Drumming]
I’ve learned so much from my teacher that I wasn’t able to learn from singing lessons elsewhere.
Waltons New School of Music provides fantastic online tuition that I’m able to easily fit into my week’s schedule. It’s so easy and works seamlessly, going from corporate meetings to summertime blues. And I wholeheartedly recommend Peter Dobai, my saxophone teacher.
I’ve always wanted to play drums, but I didn’t know where to begin. I saw that Waltons offers one-off Intensive Lessons, took the plunge and haven’t looked back! The teacher was so helpful and encouraging that I decided to enrol for regular drum kit lessons and buy an electronic kit. I’m hugely enjoying the experience.
I recently took the Introducing Bodhrán course and I loved it! John was a great teacher and created a really fun atmosphere in the class. He has a lot of knowledge of music in general. Looking forward to continuing with the bodhrán. Very good value for money too!
I would highly recommend Harry Long to anyone wanting to take up tin whistle. He is a patient and encouraging tutor. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
Waltons New School of Music and my excellent teacher gave me the opportunity both to learn and achieve something that I didn’t think was possible for me. Through combination of healthy challenge and empathetic guidance, I learnt and grew in ways that I didn’t think I would in such a short space of time. Thank you…. [Songwriting Workshop participant]
I can’t recommend [tin whistle] lessons with Harry enough, he is so knowledgeable about the instrument and its history, and it is great to hear him play. His teaching style works really well, and I enjoyed the challenges he set for me. He went at my pace, and I felt confident playing despite not having played the tin whistle in years. I can’t wait for the next term!
A wonderfully accessible way to learn music with expert teachers in a relaxed and friendly environment. Highly recommended. [Irish flute student]
Very clear and informative. A must for music students. A great teacher. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
The online [Introducing Guitar for Adults] course was very good and allowed me to take the first steps towards playing guitar. The teacher was knowledgeable, covered a good range of topics, was very clear in explaining them and taught us good songs. He was also accessible and always available to support us with any questions we had.
Sinhué is a wonderful teacher. He is so enthusiastic, and I have learned so much about the flute as well as how to play it. I have found the lessons very enjoyable.
Sinéad is amazing, and Waltons students are lucky to have her! I learned so much in such a short time, and it’s all thanks to her and her passion! [Musical Theatre Workshop]
Paddy made every [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class an interesting one. He is a superb teacher.
I felt my basic guitar skills improved considerably over the online improvers Guitar for Adults course. Plenty of challenging and interesting songs to work on to continue to improve. The teacher was great. He clearly knows his stuff and is very easy going, approachable, encouraging and genuinely interested in making sure everyone was getting something from the classes.
I can’t say enough good things about Waltons New School of Music! My toddler has been taking [Making Music] classes, and it’s been an absolute joy watching her grow from a shy little one to an enthusiastic music lover. The teacher’s patience and engaging teaching style worked wonders with my daughter, and that seems to be the standard for all teachers at Waltons. The school has such a friendly, welcoming vibe, and they really know how to make music learning fun while keeping it professional. Whether you’re booking classes, rescheduling, or asking questions, the staff is super helpful and organised. What I love most is how they cater to everyone – from tiny tots like mine to adults – with flexible scheduling that actually works for busy families. If you’re thinking about music lessons, I’d definitely recommend giving Waltons a try. It’s been such a positive experience for us, and seeing my daughter confidently participating in their music sessions makes it all worth it!
This course [Sight Singing Made Easy] is a great way to learn sight singing with an excellent teacher. I’ve sung with a few choirs over the years, but I always had to learn the music either by ear or with recordings. What a pleasure it is now to just pick up a written song or piece of music and sing it!
I started taking online guitar lessons with Waltons during the lockdown in May, and I have to say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. In fact, I found online lessons so effective and convenient that I’m continuing with them this year as well. I have an excellent teacher who really cares about his students’ progress, and I’m hugely enjoying the experience of learning guitar.
I’ve been attending voice lessons with Sinéad Flynn for the last five years, and I have felt my confidence grow and my technique improve thanks to the effort both myself and Sinéad put in every week! It has been great to work towards the Scholarship Competition, as well as towards grade exams, in a relaxed and supportive environment, and I’ve really enjoyed the experience.
John is a great guitar teacher. He helped me understand the instrument / fret board a lot more and helped me to correct bad habits.
Daniel is a great piano teacher. He is dedicated and very patient, particularly with younger students like my 6-year-old daughter. We’re thrilled with her progress, and she loves the piano lessons. I also like the availability of online lessons at home for younger children. I would highly recommend anyone, beginner or advanced, to take lessons with Waltons New School of Music.
Great, flexible, friendly and encouraging teacher. [Songwriting Workshop]
I have really enjoyed [Introducing Violin for Adults] at the school, especially the outstanding teaching skills, kindness and patience of the instructor. I have to say that choosing this course was a very good decision.
Take that chance – it is never too late. From the day I signed up for the [Songwriting Workshop] course to the last session the teacher and staff were so helpful and friendly. Just go for it!
My children have been taking online lessons with Barbara Dagg, who is an outstanding piano teacher with the experience and patience to inspire even the most challenging of children. She tried different techniques and ways of teaching to find something that worked well for both of my children. For my oldest, she was supportive and understanding as she went into her first pre-exam and gave her confidence. For my youngest, she tried different ways of working with her to find something that stuck. They have both progressed tremendously in the last year and enjoy playing. We have had a great experience with the school, and I have already recommended it to other families.
Have been to the Jazz Vocal Workshop at Waltons as well as one-on-one singing lessons. Teachers are personable, friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, so too are the admin staff. I would highly recommend the school and will be signing up again soon for more intensive singing lessons!
Excellent teacher. Excellent tuition. Friendly and encouraging. The Introducing Violin for Adults course content was perfectly pitched for a violin beginner. I enjoyed it immensely.
Sinéad was brilliant. She brought out the best in me, and I am much more confident now about my voice. I loved everything about the [Musical Theatre Workshop] course. Fun, laughter, confidence building.
The [Introducing Violin for Children] course exceeded my expectations. The teacher was kind and engaging. I was impressed that music theory was included from the first lesson so the students could begin to read the music they played. My son could see his own progress over the 10 weeks, and we look forward to continuing his tuition here.
A great teacher who offers excellent tuition catered around each individual student’s needs. One of the best. [Introducing Irish Fiddle]
This course [Musical Theatre Workshop] is excellent for developing both acting and singing skills in fun, relaxed and creative atmosphere. Sinéad is dedicated, enthusiastic and open to letting the class develop their performance. I hope to take the course again next year, as it has given me the confidence to perform and audition for my local musical society.
My son has learned guitar with the school for past two years and loves it. He has become really skilled and confident in his ability. I highly recommend Waltons, a professional and friendly music school with great results and a high standard of teaching.
Great classes [Introducing World Drumming] and even better teacher – very knowledgeable and gives attention to everyone in the group.
The [Introducing 5-String Banjo] course is professionally taught, with the targets outlined and explained at beginning of the course. And our tutor Paddy keeps the classes both interesting and varied.
I’m absolutely delighted that I signed up for the [Introducing Irish Fiddle] course, which is at the perfect level for a group of adult beginners. We have a fantastic teacher with an approachable and accessible teaching style, who communicates so well with our group. There is a lovely rapport in the class. Overall, the New School has a great atmosphere and is a great environment for learning music. The staff and teachers are so professional and accommodating. I would definitely recommend it to a friend!
The Musical Theatre Workshop is amazing. Sinéad is very competent and dedicated. She really knows what she’s doing and I learned a lot with her.
Sinéad is an incredible voice teacher. She is not only extremely talented and dedicated but is also very skilled at understanding the student’s psychological limits and tailors her lessons accordingly. She clearly puts a lot of effort and time into her teaching, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have found her.
The teacher is great at providing a fun environment for learning. [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)]
My classical guitar teacher has a huge knowledge of music and vast experience in the music industry (just Google his name and you will be impressed!). He can explain the most difficult things in a simple and comprehensible way. I was a complete beginner when I started, and I can’t believe how fast I’m learning and how much I’m enjoying the lessons and playing this instrument. I would recommend Waltons New School of Music to anyone who wants to explore the mind-blowing world of classical guitar.
Excellent teacher. I had so much fun learning to play guitar in a fun and relaxed environment. I will definitely come back. [Introducing Guitar for Teens]
I am a happy member of the Sing Your Heart Out Choir, [and] I would like to assert that Cathy McEvoy is an exceptional teacher, musician and human being. We are all very privileged to benefit from her amazing talent, patience and spirit. Our Thursday evenings are truly a delight and a wonderful learning experience.
The [Introducing Bodhrán] course was amazing, and I can’t believe how much I’ve learned in such a short time. We have a fantastic teacher, knowledgeable and happy to introduce us to different types and flavours of music. He was very encouraging, and all in all it was a great experience.
My personal experience is that Waltons New School of Music has a long tradition of fostering musical talent in its students, and my tutors have continued that tradition with respect, flexibility, skill and creativity. I really enjoy working with Adam, my Irish harp teacher, and he has helped me develop my own skills and style at my own pace.
I have a great flute teacher who explains everything very clearly.
My teacher was so engaged and tailored the lessons to my wants and needs. [Irish banjo student]
Sinéad Flynn is the best teacher I have ever had, for any discipline. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone interested in exploring their voice as an instrument. Sinéad is an exceptional teacher, very knowledgeable and encouraging, with a wonderful disposition. Also, the school staff are great, and the location is excellent.
John is a fantastic teacher. I have no musical talent, and I somehow came out of this 10-week course [Introducing Bodhrán] being able to play a few reels and jigs, and having really enjoyed the course.
With a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and excellent teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed this online course. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
Éamonn, my bodhrán teacher, is excellent at teaching music. He is calm, friendly and a really nice person. Thank you for your help!
I like the structured approach and empathetic teacher with the ability to identify and help areas of weakness. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
From my point of view the teaching at the school is top class.
The tuition is first rate…fantastic tutor, with excellent ability in both playing and teaching. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
I have been learning jazz piano at the New School for the past three years. Johnny Taylor is a fabulous musician. He has a great understanding of melody and harmony and a superb talent in sharing and explaining his knowledge. He can also recognise what talent I have and build on it. His criticism is always precise and is followed by remedies to improve. He is a natural instructor – not an easy profession. I was a pilot with Aer Lingus for 30 years and came across many skilled pilots, but only a few had the ability to pass on their skills as instructors – something Johnny Taylor has in spades. As well as playing the piano a little better, my understanding has increased tenfold, and I am enjoying the piano and the instruction immensely.
As a mature student with no prior musical experience, I came to these [banjo] lessons apprehensive and nervous, but Paddy’s easygoing and patient style and ability to break down and explain techniques has helped me to progress. It has been a life changing experience, and I would highly recommend this to students in any age group. [online student]
Dave Mooney is an excellent bass guitar teacher who has made [my son] the musician he is today.
Great [voice] teacher, very friendly as well. She put a lot of effort into finding new ways to improve my singing.
I think Sarah is an excellent piano teacher with a wealth of knowledge about music. She assesses my performance and sets expectations for me every week based on how fast or slow I am progressing. Her lessons are extremely well structured with a rightful emphasis to perfect the basics, and it’s really inspiring to learn from her.
My teacher is a gem. A kind person with a deep understanding of music, who knows how to teach it. [voice student]
Everything needed for your exam in one place. The teacher was very good and explained everything, particularly the composition paper. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Enthusiastic and motivating [clarinet] instructor and friendly staff.
Johnny Taylor is exceptional. As a former classical piano teacher to diploma level, I can safely say he is the best teacher I have come across, and I consider myself very fortunate to have done so. [jazz piano student]
The teacher had an excellent knowledge of music and inspired me! Extremely good notes…easy to apprehend. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
My son takes drum kit lessons at the New School, and his teacher uses a variety of teaching techniques to make the lessons both interesting and enjoyable. The school has a great location and facilities for teaching.
I found the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] course very enjoyable and very much looked forward to my hour class every week. My teacher created a very relaxed and fun learning environment and managed to include enough variation for me to have a good understanding of guitar playing. Will be continuing classes in the next term.
The teacher really contributed to my learning development and knowledge of music. [Leaving Cert. Music Two-Year Course]
The [Introducing Singing for Adults] course was so much more than I expected. I learned so much and gained confidence within myself. The teacher was an inspiration!
The passion and ability of the individual teacher makes a huge difference both to the learning outcome and to the enjoyment of the lessons. Sinéad has the ability to make these happen. [voice student]
Harry’s teaching methods are excellent, and I could see my own skills improving each week. Great atmosphere in the classroom. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
Any anxiety, doubts or fears I may have had as a senior citizen with an interest in Irish music and as a late-comer to the process of learning to play the guitar, were first removed on meeting your reception staff and later re-enforced by the professionalism and friendliness of my tutor John Sweeney.
My [violin] tutor is amazingly patient and always provided me with so many alternative ways to approach a difficult section within a piece I was practicing for my exam. The feedback always started with the positive! What I especially about taking online lessons was not having to factor in the travel time. And regarding the school, I was made to feel part of a community, whether calling into the office or emailing. Everyone in the office and on the faculty is so supportive.
Melanie is a very talented teacher, and her [Sing & Swing Jazz Vocal Ensemble] classes are a joy. She has a natural flair for communicating her extensive knowledge of jazz and swing music with infectious enthusiasm and fun. There was a lovely dynamic in our group, and we all learned to sing great songs with impressive rhythm and harmony.
Melanie is very experienced teacher/songwriter, and she was very generous about sharing her knowledge. She was also very supportive and gave everyone on the course plenty of time and support with their individual creative projects. Really enjoyed the [Art & Craft of Songwriting] workshop!
The teacher was very enthusiastic. His love for the music shone through! [Irish Music Tasters]
Really enjoyed the Songwriting Workshop! In this difficult time when we can’t go places, music is the best remedy. The teacher delivered very hands-on classes that got me writing a few songs within a few weeks! Thank you. 😀
Harry is just great. In a few tin whistle lessons (all online and taken from Dublin, Amsterdam, Rome and Poland!), he taught me the basics of the Irish tin whistle, with a little effort from my side. His key capability is being able to transfer knowledge in an enjoyable manner.
This place is an oasis flowing with the love of music, with a great atmosphere and teachers. [jazz piano student]
Ableton Live Basics is a great course to get started with Ableton Live, and it has given me the confidence to make my own music. The course was set at just the right pace, and every class covered something new without being overwhelming. The teacher’s friendly and relaxed attitude made the whole experience really enjoyable.
I looked forward to the class every week. We have an excellent teacher…always enthusiastic and encouraging. I’ll definitely be recommending [Introducing Violin for Adults] to other people, and I will be attending the next stage.
Thank you Waltons New School of Music for providing a course I had been looking around for and for delivering on its promises. Superb tutor! [Introducing Music Technology]
Michael made learning fun and very accessible (i.e. you don’t have to be ‘gifted’ to learn to play). He explains techniques well and is very positive. [Introducing Harmonica]
Cathy is a great teacher [and] exposes me to interesting music material while quite dramatically improving my fiddle playing from a technical standpoint. [Irish and bluegrass fiddle student]
My son has made great progress with the saxophone while studying here. While he has worked hard himself, much of this is down to the teacher, who has been both patient and motivating.
I have been attending Waltons New School of Music for the past year, and it’s safe to say that I have run out of superlatives when it comes to the place. My own personal experience has been truly amazing from day one.
Firstly, you meet the people in the office, who couldn’t be more welcoming, helpful, and patiently informant. They do what I believe is a tough job very, very well.
I am learning traditional guitar with John Sweeney, and I’d like to take this opportunity to tell anyone thinking about joining up or getting started that this man has a gift, and I have to thank him on a regular basis for not keeping this wonderful gift to himself. He is unbelievably patient, is superbly knowledgeable about music and is just so down to earth and makes the lesson so enjoyable. You can see from him that he clearly loves his job, as he gets the same joy that the student does when things start to come together.
I also attend the Trad Slow Sessions on Friday evenings, and these too are excellent.
I would highly recommend Waltons New School of Music to anyone that is interested in taking up an instrument as I feel that you’re in good hands, you’re getting value for your money (they even have a discount for parking your car in Dury Street Carpark) and you will ultimately come out of there a far better musician than when you went in.
I enjoyed the [Introducing Singing for Adults] course immensely and learned a lot. The teacher was excellent and I liked the whole welcoming set up in Waltons New School of Music.
I came back to guitar lessons in middle age and have found that I can pick up my skills and still learn to a high level, with a collaborative and supportive teacher. He really tunes into what music I like to play, understands what skills I need to work on and gives me very good guidance for practising. It has been most beneficial and enjoyable.
I had no expectations going to my first [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class, but when it was over, I knew I was in the right place and was going to love it! Paddy is such an affable man, blessed with great patience, who made learning such a pleasure. The class was just so engrossing that the hour seemed to fly by. Prior to my tuition, I was a complete novice musically. And although I’m still very much in the embryonic stage of my musical journey, after my tuition with Paddy I feel that I’ve come such a long way already. I simply can’t stress enough how much enjoyment and knowledge I derive from my class every week.
I also love the ‘old school’ charm that the New School of Music offers – those brief interactions of curiosity and encouragement with students of other instruments, as we await our respective classes.
The school has a welcoming atmosphere and a very high standard of teaching that strives to meet the student’s personalised goals. Competitions, scholarships, etc. are great opportunities for students. [voice student]
The [Introducing Violin for Adults] course gave me a great introduction to a difficult instrument in a friendly, fun environment. It was challenging but thoroughly enjoyable, which I think should be credited to the patience and helpfulness of the teacher.
A very positive experience and great teaching. [Introducing World Drumming]
David is calm and understanding teacher who is very good at explaining and imparting his knowledge of the violin. Would definitely recommend. And it’s convenient and easy to take online lessons on my laptop from home. I have had a very good experience with the school overall – great teachers and helpful staff in the school office.
My daughter started learning piano without any interest, and now, after two years, she is still learning and wants to keep learning, thanks to God and the teachers in your school.
Very good course and atmosphere…. [My son] loved the teacher, different instruments and other children. Interaction helped him to ‘come out of his shell’. [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)]
Excellent teacher! [Making Music (Ages 3-4)]
I liked the encouragement and guidance, the comradery with the group and the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, as well as the great teacher, very knowledgeable and experienced, with great insight into songwriting and lots of tips. [Songwriting Workshop]
Our teachers are listed in alphabetical order by surname. You can also filter teachers by department or area.
Click on an image or name to access a biography.
- All Faculty
- Drums • Percussion
- Ensembles
- Guitar • Bass • Ukulele
- Irish Music Tasters
- Jazz
- Leaving Certificate Music
- Music at Work Programme
- Music Technology
- Outreach Programme
- Piano • Keyboard
- Pre-Instrumental (Early Years) Music
- String Instruments
- Theory • Musicianship • Songwriting
- Traditional • Folk • World Instruments
- Voice (Singing)
- Wind Instruments
Aoife Dunne
Lenka Dobai
Ana Dundovic
Siobhán Kavanagh
Jennifer McMahon
Melanie O’Reilly
Jade Roche
