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
My son’s [piano] teacher has a great approach and teaching skills for all levels. Would not change her in a million years. Concerts which are held in the school are fantastic preparation for stage or exams.
Barbara is a wonderful [piano] teacher! I was also very impressed with how quickly the school adapted to online lessons and was so happy that Barbara was able to continue to give our daughter lessons. Very impressive!
Great [piano] teacher, always ready to help, with incredible patience and very helpful suggestions.
My voice teacher is caring, kind and hard working, and I feel I have improved so much.
I am so glad I took this amazing course [Songwriting Workshop]. It far exceeded my expectations. Luan is an excellent teacher, and writing a song with her was a great and enjoyable experience. It is such a great opportunity being offered by Waltons. I believe that there are many people who would like to write a song and just need this guidance. Brilliant course.
I like the structured approach and empathetic teacher with the ability to identify and help areas of weakness. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
Marta is a wonderful teacher. After taking [voice] lessons with her, my daughter’s attitude towards singing completely changed. She has gained confidence in singing and now has a real love for it.
Brilliant school and wonderful, attentive and adaptive [voice] tuition from my teacher, herself a fantastic vocalist! Loved my lessons, will be back for more, and would highly recommend the place to anyone looking to improve their abilities and confidence in music.
I was over 50 and wanted to learn to play the fiddle, so I signed up for my first set of classes (10). I nervously attended my first [Introducing Irish Fiddle] class in Waltons, and I needn’t have worried. The admin staff were so welcoming and light-hearted and made me feel at ease. My class teacher has a very natural way of teaching; she is so patient and encouraging and there is a relaxed atmosphere in the class. I will be starting my sixth set of sessions with Waltons at Easter.
Our teacher laid out the [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] course content very well and made it so easy to understand. I have already recommended the course to other people and will definitely be back to continue with one on one lessons with her.
Dave is an amazing teacher – the best I’ve ever had. He is extremely patient and passionate about what he is doing, and he is really good at motivating people. [Jazz Ensemble II student]
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.
The [Introducing Tin Whistle] classes are the highlight of my week. I tried other instruments but always gave up, never found one that I could enjoy as much as I do the tin whistle. So much of it is thanks to Harry, who is a brilliant, expert teacher, finding the perfect pace to develop and always encouraging the group
The teacher was very friendly and professional. We were very happy with our 5-year-old son attending the [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)] class and look forward to him joining again in September.
My son has been taking guitar lessons at Waltons New School of Music for the past two years. He always enjoys going to them and has learned and improved a lot. We love the school because of how good the teachers are, how friendly the staff is, and for its great location. A place to treasure.
It’s an amazing course! [Musical Explorations [Ages 5-6)] I am so thrilled with the teaching and atmosphere, and Jade is a really gifted teacher. My five-year-old has been engaging with the world differently since starting; he sees musical instruments in ordinary kitchen items, and he hears and identifies music now. We have such fun improvising together. It’s beautiful watching him bloom.
I went to Waltons to improve on guitar. There’s a good vibe in the school, with very helpful staff. I took lessons with John, who was both sound and enthusiastic about teaching guitar. Got a lot out of it.
Thoroughly enjoyed the course [Musical Theatre Workshop]. Sinéad is a super teacher!
Great fun, amazing teacher, loved every class! [Introducing Ukulele for Adults]
Great tuition! Have been taking trad flute lessons here for the last year and my instructor has brought me on by leaps and bounds. The Friday Trad Slow Sessions are an excellent way to learn new tunes.
Michael McInerney has the blues running through his veins. I didn’t really expect much from the [Introducing Harmonica] course, but it’s so good I keep signing up for more terms of harmonica playing. Great fun too!
Sinéad is a wonderful teacher. Every week she has encouraged me with her positive feedback, and I have gained a lot of confidence about my singing since starting lessons with her. I would recommend Sinéad and Waltons New School of Music to anyone who enjoys music. I also like the fact that the school accommodates both online and face-to-face tuition, and it’s both very central in town and easy to access by public transport. Finally, I have booked rooms in the school to practice my singing outside of lessons – which is an excellent facility.
Great teacher with lots of good tips and helpful notes. [Leaving Cert. Music Pre-Exam Revision Workshop]
I have an absolutely brilliant teacher. He is not only passionate about music but he is also a very talented drummer. I couldn’t ask for a better teacher, as he goes above and beyond in every class. I hesitated to enrol for drumming lessons at the beginning, as I wasn’t sure if this would be for me. Thanks to my teacher and his tremendous talent I discovered my new passion. Love every minute. 10/10
Great, knowledgeable teacher. This beginner guitar class [Introducing Guitar for Adults] helped me go from not knowing one end of a guitar from the other to actually being able to play a song!
I was nervous learning an instrument like the guitar for the first time as an adult, but our teacher made us all feel at ease and the pace of the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] lessons suited our learning development. I can’t wait to come back!
I wish I had discovered the New School’s Intensive Lessons sooner! I have a great singing teacher, and I have a lesson with her whenever I can, but I was out of the country far too much to have regular weekly lessons. When the first lockdown happened, I started taking online intensives, which worked very well. So when I do start travelling again I plan to take online intensives when I’m away.
My [piano] teacher is so enthusiastic, encouraging and knowledgeable.
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.
A fantastic course and a gifted, caring teacher. My daughter really enjoyed learning piano with other children, and the teacher was so encouraging that no child felt left behind. This course and approach is worlds away from the way I learned piano, and I’m so happy that my daughter wants to continue! [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Children]
Our [Introducing Irish Fiddle] teacher was really supportive and enthusiastic from the start, and her love for music was contagious! I really enjoyed learning from her and I will definitely continue taking lessons from Waltons.
Paddy is an excellent, adaptable [banjo] teacher who helped me to achieve my goals.
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 silver lining of this pandemic was that lessons moved online, and even though I had moved to Kerry I could continue learning to sing with Sinéad Flynn. She is a fabulous teacher and a huge asset to the New School. I would highly recommend to any aspiring singers or performers to sign up for lessons with Sinéad and the New School. [voice student]
The relaxed way of teaching makes you feel at home on the [Songwriting Workshop] course and gives you the confidence to perform in front of your fellow classmates. I can’t believe I stood up in front of a room full of people and performed my own songs! It was an amazing experience.
Luke is a great [piano] teacher who nurtured and expanded [my daughter’s] musical abilities. We were very pleased with the tuition she received at Waltons New School of Music. The school administration also takes a real interest in matching your child to the most suitable teacher for what it is that you and your child are hoping to achieve from the lessons.
I’ve been taking Intensive Lessons in blues guitar on and off for the past couple of years. They’re a great solution for someone who can’t commit to weekly lessons. Also, I have a fantastic teacher who gives me plenty of material to work on between my lessons.
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.
My only knowledge of music was as a subject I had taken for my Junior Cert. 50 years ago! The adult piano online beginners’ classes [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] were great. Our teacher is a lovely person and is very good at explaining and encouraging. This is a new hobby for me, and although I am slow to learn, I really enjoy the lessons and the practice.
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 my Intensive Lesson with Dav. I honestly thought I was incapable of singing, and she changed my mind on that!
I started learning the drums as an adult, and my tutor, who is both very kind and professional, has made me feel very at ease and provided a great, personally tailored experience for learning quickly. The school’s location is very convenient and I feel like I’m getting everything I need from my lessons. Highly recommended.
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!
My teacher is a gem. A kind person with a deep understanding of music, who knows how to teach it. [voice 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.
Harry is a great teacher, with a passion for Irish music that is infectious. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
Great induction course. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] The teacher was relatable, approachable and knew what he was talking about.
Thank you very much for the very informative, exciting and interesting three days for our students at your school! They really enjoyed playing the tin whistle and bodhrán and singing traditional Irish songs. Your teachers did a really good job, and the students learned a lot in a very short time. A fascinating new experience! [Irish Music Tasters]
Excellent online course, great teacher, highly recommended. [Summer Music Technology Essentials]
Dav is an amazing voice teacher – incredibly kind, patient and extremely knowledgeable. What I value most is how much I learn in every single lesson. She has a wonderful way of explaining things that helps me to truly understand my voice and develop my skills step by step. I always leave the lessons feeling that I have grown as a singer and gained new confidence. Even on difficult days, the lessons lift my mood and motivate me to keep improving. Her energy and passion for her work are truly inspiring. She is not only a wonderful teacher but also an exceptional artist.
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]
Paddy Kiernan is a charismatic musician and a great teacher. His greatest asset is his continuously positive and enthusiastic approach to teaching, which derives from his deep love for music. He has encouraged me to work methodically to improve myself as a musician, while also helping me to understand my potential. I’m very lucky to have a teacher like him.
The school has a warm and welcoming environment with a very courteous and helpful administration and excellent teachers. [mandolin student]
The results [of my voice lessons] have far exceeded my expectations, and I discovered parts of my voice that I didn’t know existed. Sinéad is a wonderful teacher and a fabulous person, and our lessons have been fun as well as productive. The school itself has very helpful staff, great tuition and a lovely friendly atmosphere.
The teachers were extremely talented, engaging and knowledgeable. I loved the demonstrations of various instruments (especially the pipes). [Irish Music Tasters]
The best singing teacher I have ever had – have learned so much.
Excellent teacher. Excellent revision. [Leaving Cert. Music Pre-Exam Revision Workshop]
We chose Waltons as one of the few music schools that offers bass guitar lessons, and the school has a very welcoming culture and great teachers. [My son] is very happy with his lessons and is keen to continue.
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.
My son is very lucky to have found such a generous, committed and talented [double bass] tutor.
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]
Sinéad created a great, welcoming and supportive musical environment. The songs we worked on varied between comfortable and challenging for me to sing, and that was a great part of the experience. [voice student]
My daughter thoroughly enjoys each [guitar] lesson. In just a short space of time she has developed confidence in playing her guitar and a desire to improve and learn more. This is purely attributable to the fantastic tuition from her teacher. Thank you!
Barbara Dagg is a brilliant piano teacher – patient, adaptive to the different needs of my three children and helping them to progress at their own pace. I also really appreciate that it has been possible to continue the lessons online, as we would be unable to travel to the school in person regularly. Online tuition is fantastic!
Great atmosphere, and the [Introducing World Drumming] classes were taught clearly and with enthusiasm. Brian is a great teacher, very patient and professional.
Dave is an extremely good teacher; he is very skilled at explaining concepts in a way that is conducive to my understanding. He is also very dedicated, puts a lot of effort into the lessons and clearly has great expertise with which to teach music theory and the bass in a very intuitive way. Overall, the standard of teaching was extremely high, and I gained a very strong understanding of both theory and my instrument very quickly. More generally, the school was very helpful in organising lessons, and the facilities and staff are both excellent.
I love the interactive nature of the [Musical Explorations (Ages 5-6)] course. My grandson loved the classes, was very happy to be there each Saturday and learned quite a lot. Jade has such a wonderful way with all her pupils – she makes them always so welcome and teaches them so much. A wonderful introduction to music! My grandson always comes out from his class in great form.
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!
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!
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.
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]
Paddy made every [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class an interesting one. He is a superb teacher.
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.
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.
I highly recommend Waltons New School of Music. I come from a conservatory background, and the level of tuition is as good. My concert flute teacher is very professional and passionate about music and teaching. He has brought me to another level with very advanced pieces, while adapting to my learning rhythm and providing the best advice.
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 would recommend the [Introducing Music Technology] course to anyone who thinks learning how to use DAW software is beyond their reach. I can’t think of a better place to start. The course made it easy to understand a lot of technical terms and information with ample time to ask questions and get clarification, which is quite an achievement for an online course. We also had an excellent, patient and hands-on teacher.
Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the Sing & Swing Jazz Vocal Ensemble with Melanie. She is a brilliant teacher and made the classes very enjoyable and educational. Her song choices were fantastic, and we learned to sing in some wonderful three-part harmonies. Many thanks!
I have such a great [violin] teacher. I’d recommend her to anyone.
A great atmosphere to learn in. I have got to know a few other students here, and the teachers are more than helpful with any musical questions that I have and have had. With the tuition I received from Waltons, I got into college to study music at Third Level. [bass guitar & piano student]
John is a great teacher who found many ways to describe the techniques required. This resourcefulness was so helpful to our understanding. [Introducing Bodhrán]
Sinéad Flynn is a wonderful singer and vocal teacher who teaches with much heart and passion, always pushing me to improve and to find more layers in the songs. The Friday casual concerts are very enjoyable, and everyone is so supportive of each other. When you enter Waltons, there is a lovely welcoming vibe, and the office staff are all extremely friendly and helpful. (voice student)
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]
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!
The tuition is first rate…fantastic tutor, with excellent ability in both playing and teaching. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
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]
My child benefited from individual attention from an excellent teacher in a small group. [Introducing Violin for Children]
Gabriele is such a friendly and helpful [violin] teacher. [My daughter] felt really comfortable with him as he made the lessons so enjoyable.
I’m into my 4th year of [guitar] tuition and have progressed way beyond my expectations – which I thought were ambitious. The environment in the school is serious in terms learning and progression, yet hugely developmental and enjoyable. My tutor is the consummate professional. He has a teaching style that is easy to engage with and breeds confidence and encouragement – all delivered with a subtle but effective eye towards delivery beyond expectations. I’ve never not looked forward to a class. That says it all for me!
The Songwriting Workshop was transformative for me, taking a lifelong ambition at songwriting and – within a few weeks – transforming it into a weekly/daily practice rather than a vague aspiration. Luan Parle clearly understands the songwriting process intimately, but what is rare is her ability to convey that deep understanding to fledgling songwriters. She dived right into the process from day one, and it was very much “learning-by-doing”. This immediately alleviated my nerves and self-consciousness. She also broke down songwriting into easily digestible components (verse/bridge/chorus/middle eight) and then sent me away to try and write each ‘part’ between classes. The course was really exciting and rewarding – and it also managed to demystify songwriting and make it more realisable. Throughout, Luan’s approach was always one of positivity and optimism – searching out the best parts of my work. The course was also very good value.
This course [Songwriting Workshop] gave me great confidence in songwriting, and to have the guidance of a professional songwriter was so helpful. The course helped me both lyrically and musically to realise my songwriting potential, and I am now constantly writing new material.
I would highly recommend Harry Long to anyone wanting to take up tin whistle. He is a patient and encouraging tutor. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
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.
This place is an oasis flowing with the love of music, with a great atmosphere and teachers. [jazz piano student]
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.
What I liked best about the [Acoustic Blues Guitar Basics] course was its interactive nature. the enthusiasm displayed by our teacher John Sweeney and the opportunity to witness a pure professional. And the encouragement and support provided by the school staff has taken the fear out of taking on a music course and added to the enjoyment and confidence to take on more.
My ukulele lessons are on Tuesday evenings, and however hard my day was, I always look forward to them and walk away with a smile. I particularly like the flexibility and patience of my teacher, as well as the relaxed atmosphere.
I was delighted to hear that such a renowned music school was now offering online music tuition. I live in the west and had great difficulty finding a piano teacher near me who could teach my skill level. (I wanted to work on a performing diploma.) My piano lessons with Waltons so far have been great – everything I could have hoped for. I have a superb teacher who is both encouraging and very clear in her advice and instructions, and I’m confident that she’ll prepare me well for my diploma.
Very good [voice] teacher, with excellent knowledge of good technique. Keep up the good work!
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.
Dav is a very talented [voice] teacher who is especially skilled in dealing with adult students.
Michael’s style of teaching is very informative as he provided a history of different musical styles, which helped [us understand] what is possible on the instrument. [Introducing Harmonica] was a great introduction to the harmonica for someone who is picking it up as a hobby while also providing enough content for someone starting with the instrument seriously.
I cannot thank you enough. My cello teacher always goes above and beyond in my lessons. And the office staff are knowledgeable, warm and friendly. It’s a lovely place to be a student.
Very friendly and professional school, with great staff.
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.
The teachers are obviously passionate, and this coupled with their musicianship and knowledge makes the learning an enjoyable and rewarding habit.
Michael McInerney, the [Introducing Harmonica] teacher, was very enthusiastic and passionate about the harmonica and teaching others. What I liked most was the detailed explanations given by the teacher and the music he assigned us to practice.
There is a really pleasant atmosphere. The teachers are always available and proactive, as well as the people who work at reception.
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]
Great structure to this online course and easy to follow notes. Our teacher was excellent, and he gave everyone a chance to play, ask questions, etc. He went above and beyond in providing chords for songs we might like to learn, MP3 recordings for all classes and most of all, enthusiasm! [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
A very positive experience and great teaching. [Introducing World Drumming]
Very enjoyable course [Introducing Music Technology], with all details well explained by a knowledgeable and friendly teacher.
Relaxed and friendly atmosphere, helpful staff, great teachers.
I would definitely recommend anyone to take singing lessons at Waltons. My singing teacher taught me how to sing and brought up techniques to develop my voice in a way I could understand in just a few weeks of lessons. She was extremely friendly, welcoming, warm and professional all at once. She is an amazing teacher and singer, and you can tell she loves it by the way she teaches…with a lot of passion and interest.
I have an excellent acoustic guitar teacher, and I could notice real improvement as we progressed through these online sessions. I would recommend the school for its competitive prices, good schedule availability and great teachers.
A fantastic opportunity to go over the course with a lecturer who really knows his stuff. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
My teacher, David Burns, was very friendly and helpful, and the violin lessons were engaging and a lot of fun. David did a great job figuring out what level I was during the first two lessons and then motivated me to improve even more.
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.
I liked everything about [Jazz Ensemble II]. The relaxed atmosphere was conducive to learning. But most of all, Dave is a great teacher and his dedication shows.
This is a well-designed course [Introducing Harmonica] where progress is nearly guaranteed (as long as you practice enough). Michael McInerney knows what he is talking about, and he definitely has the skills to bring you to the next level.
The online classes were very enjoyable. There was a lovely atmosphere, and everyone felt at ease. The teacher was excellent, always ready to help and had a lovely way of encouraging her students. And there was no pressure put on any student to be perfect. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
I have a lovely fiddle teacher, who takes her time and is patient. She is very knowledgeable and teaches in a challenging but understandable way.
I only started recently, and as a mature student I was a bit apprehensive about going back to music after many many years – but both Andriy, my piano teacher, and Cathy, my fiddle teacher, made me feel at ease, and from week one I have just enjoyed it! Everyone in the school is so friendly and helpful – from the people in the office giving me information on courses and taking time to help me with any queries I had, to the teachers, who are brilliant. I would definitely recommend Waltons – a very welcoming place for students of all ages. Great location. Great teachers. Great staff. A positive experience from the very start!
I am a resident of the U.S. and was delighted to have found online guitar lessons with Waltons New School of Music. For an absolute beginner like myself, I had the ideal teacher, so patient and encouraging, allowing me to build confidence with every lesson. I could not have been happier with the experience. I am just so glad Waltons has made online music learning available. What a great use of technology to be able to connect with talented musicians and instructors from around the world!
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.
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. 😀
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.
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.
Paul has taught both of my sons drumming, and they look forward to it every week. My eldest son (14) is now the drummer in his school musical and in a band, and my younger son (12) is on the lookout for members for his own band. The experience has expanded their love of music, and they now spend their pocket money on records and have been to his gigs. Paul is an ideal music role model – chill, kind, funny, patient and talented.
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!
Friendly admin. staff and great teachers. Very pleased overall.
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.
The instructor is extremely knowledgeable but also patient and approachable. Highly recommended. [Music Fundamentals]
Great school with really great teachers, who have a lovely way with children. We would definitely recommend! [mother of Introducing Violin for Children student]
All together I would give the [Introducing Guitar for Teens] course out of 10 – great teacher, great staff, great facilities – Waltons has it all.
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.
The teachers here are the best I’ve ever come across. I have been in the school for seven years, and it has never let me down.
The welcoming and friendly atmosphere and wonderful staff and teachers at Waltons make it such a special place to be a part of. I started my singing lessons with the fantastic Sinéad Flynn nine months ago and have loved every lesson since. Whether you’re a beginning a new instrument or an experienced musician, I could not recommend Waltons more!
The teacher was very enthusiastic. His love for the music shone through! [Irish Music Tasters]
Excellent school, excellent teachers, I would highly recommend. We had Dave Mooney for bass this year and he was great. Patient, kind and a great teacher.
Great [Introducing Ukulele for Adults] teacher. Never having played an instrument before, I didn’t have high expectations for this course, but years ago I fell in love with Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ‘Over the Rainbow’ on ukulele and wanted to play it – and believe it or not, now I can!
Our [Jazz Vocal Workshop] teacher is very knowledgeable, patient and good-humoured, and I enjoyed exploring a new area of singing with someone who is both an expert in her field and able to teach it. This is my third course at Waltons and all three have been great.
This course [Introducing Bodhrán] was brilliant. I can now play Riverdance on the bodhrán! John was such an inspiring teacher, and his passion was infectious. I would highly recommend Waltons. Thank you.
My Irish harp teacher’s method is truly excellent. From precise and efficient playing techniques to ways of making the music richer, she impresses me every time. As an international student, I also found the environment at the school incredibly welcoming. The teachers are very patient and explain everything clearly, making it a perfect place for anyone to learn music, regardless of their background!
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.
What I liked best about the course was the fast progress we made, the great atmosphere of the class and the teacher’s amazing instruction and passion for music. [Introducing Irish Fiddle]
My daughter has a great [violin] teacher! I was hesitant at first to sign her up for online lessons, as I could not picture how music lessons might be held online. However, the lessons are fantastic! The teacher notices even small things and has done an excellent job in teaching and motivating my daughter to improve.
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]
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]
Andriy’s [piano lessons] are excellent. He doesn’t get frustrated with my mistakes, and he helps explain how to overcome sections that are proving difficult. He is also a pleasure to work with and successfully helped me prepare for and pass my very first music exam.
I would highly recommend the Making Music course for 3–4-year-olds. It’s a truly brilliant course, wonderfully active and engaging, and it really benefitted my son’s listening skills and enthusiasm for singing and dancing. It’s lovely that there is no need for any knowledge of music or instruments for it and that the teacher combines her knowledge of music and teaching superbly well.
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 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!
Excellent school. Excellent teachers and staff, who really give their time in the interest of students. Studying at Waltons has re-ignited my absolute passion for music.
Participating in the Jazz Ensemble has been an absolute joy. Dave is such an encouraging and supportive teacher, and I feel that I’ve really come to grips with how jazz ‘works’.
I am hugely enjoying my piano lessons and really like my teacher’s approach. I have made great progress in the last year.
John made learning the bodhrán such fun. Looked forward every week to the class. [Introducing Bodhrán student]
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.
I am very happy with my voice lessons at Waltons. I have an amazing teacher, very encouraging and patient, who makes the work fun. I will be continuing my lessons here for as long as I can afford it!
My teacher was so engaged and tailored the lessons to my wants and needs. [Irish banjo student]
Our [Introducing Violin for Adults] teacher was very friendly, calm and patient. She took everything step by step and made sure we understood. A very good teacher!
John was very passionate about music and made me love playing the guitar. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
A good music tutor is worth their weight in notes! It’s the personal touch that makes tuition at Waltons a far superior product to other products, especially on-line tutorials. Having a tutor who specialises in your chosen instrument and has 3rd level or higher qualifications means the student receives phenomenal value for both money but more importantly, TIME. 60 minutes with a good tutor can unravel countless hours of poor self-learning and bad habits, leaving the student highly motivated to improve and develop their playing repertoire. What’s not to like! [bass student]
My [Introducing Singing for Adults] teacher is brilliant at explaining, giving hands-on tips and exercises to practice. She knows how to make people feel both more comfortable and braver, and she is always positive and encouraging.
I am only sorry that I did not find out about the [Introducing 5-String Banjo] course sooner at age 61. Better late than never. Paddy is a fantastic teacher, and the course so far is a blast!
I had an excellent piano teacher for my Intensive Lesson – very clear, organised, friendly and patient! Doing a lesson with him was a pleasure, and I plan to continue my piano/keyboard studies here. I highly recommend the school for its excellent teachers, very helpful administrative staff, user friendly website and convenient and accessible location!
The teacher explained everything clearly and efficiently [and] made the complicated works easier to grasp. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
I thought Dan, our teacher, was great, very patient with beginners while keeping us moving on to the next step. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults student]
Enjoyed every [voice] lesson due to the support and encouragement, energy and enthusiasm of my teacher.
Vita Galla is a very easy-going piano teacher and a pleasure to work with. Waltons are also efficient in their paperwork/admin, which means I always got the time/day I want.
Excellent tutor who takes personal interest in our progress. I am learning so much, am enjoying every class and have improved significantly since I started the course. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
I recommend Waltons New School of Music without reservation to anyone who has a desire to learn a musical instrument or take a refresher course.
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.
My daughter looks forward to her [Introducing Guitar for Children] class each week. She learned so quickly how to read music. The teacher is very good with kids.
Sinéad is a fantastic [voice] teacher. She’s super attuned and knows how to put her students at ease, creating a space for them to take risks and explore their musicality and voice. She’s also incredibly encouraging and engages with the person in front of her in a holistic, empathic, super-experienced and grounded way. And she paces the level of challenge really well. In general, I’ve had such a positive experience in the school; all the staff are lovely and extremely helpful, balancing warmth and professionalism. A beating heart of music education in Dublin’s city centre.
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.
Loved the [Introducing 5-String Banjo] course, and instructor was brilliant. He took me from picking up a banjo and not knowing a thing to having a really good grasp of the instrument.
The [Introducing Irish Fiddle] teacher was excellent, very encouraging and with endless patience.
I loved our bodhrán lesson with Éamonn – patient, witty, amicable and an expert musician – especially when he taught me a rhythm and then he accompanied me on his flute. Great fun! Would absolutely recommend this top notch experience! [Irish Music Tasters]
My [voice] teacher is patient and skilled in understanding how different students might process things differently – which is great, in my experience. She’s also a performing and working musician, which I feel is important for music teachers in general. The teachers and faculty that make up Waltons are very skilled and passionate musicians, which makes them particularly great teachers.
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.
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.
A great [voice] teacher…really encouraging and patient. She has really helped me to regain the confidence in singing that I thought I had lost.
I started the [Musical Theatre Workshop] wanting to sing but not believing I could. I ended it on a high note – literally. I found my voice through the energy, enthusiasm and love of singing Sinéad shares and gives to you – to find your voice is a powerful gift to yourself.
The wonderful teacher, very supportive and patient, made for a very enjoyable experience. There was a lovely sense of camaraderie in the group learning and playing together. [Flute Ensemble]
Luke Howard was the best part of the [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] course. He was energetic and enthusiastic about the everything. This made the course more exciting since it was online.
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]
I have an excellent [classical guitar] teacher, and I admire his musicality, his talent, his wide-ranging taste and his skills. He is an excellent judge of the right pace for progression and diversification of repertoire, and he’s generous with his many practical and very helpful suggestions on technique and the best use of practice sessions. I have enjoyed my lessons with him enormously, and I feel I’ve made huge progress since I started with him. The atmosphere of my lessons is relaxed yet focused on the music. It has worked really well for me.
Fantastic [Trad Guitar Basics] teacher with stellar enthusiasm.
As a past musician who had not played an instrument for 30 years, Waltons and [my teacher] gave me back my music. For that I will always be grateful.
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.
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
Lenka Dobai
Ana Dundovic
Aoife Dunne
Siobhán Kavanagh
Jennifer McMahon
Melanie O’Reilly
Isabella Remkes
Jade Roche
