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
Paddy is an excellent teacher. He is very easy to understand and explains things thoroughly. I enjoyed the [Introducing 5-String Banjo] course and learned so much that I will be booking ahead for the next 3 terms.
I loved the [Introducing Ukulele for Adults] classes. I started with zero knowledge, but within weeks I was playing along to some great songs. The teacher is an accomplished and talented musician, and his love for music comes through in his classes. He was patient, positive and encouraging at all times. Great fun, highly recommended!
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 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’!
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.
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’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.
My piano teacher is very understanding, patient and encouraging. These online lessons have been a great experience, and I should have done it years ago.
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.
Great teachers. Very family friendly. Brilliant one to one teaching.
I have a great flute teacher who explains everything very clearly.
My child loved the [Introducing Guitar for Teens] class and the teacher. She’s learned a lot.
John Sweeney is a terrific tutor. He listens to my sons and builds up a great rapport that keeps them interested in the guitar.
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.
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.
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]
Everything was taught in a very relaxed manner, and the [Introducing Irish Fiddle] course had a really lovely and enjoyable atmosphere. Adam is extremely patient and thorough, and I was absolutely delighted that he was our teacher.
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]
Dave Mooney is an excellent bass guitar teacher who has made [my son] the musician he is today.
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!
Great school. Very good, caring teachers make learning enjoyable.
Paddy is an excellent, adaptable [banjo] teacher who helped me to achieve my goals.
The instructor is extremely knowledgeable but also patient and approachable. Highly recommended. [Music Fundamentals]
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.
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!
Very professional and friendly school with excellent teachers. I really enjoyed studying here.
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]
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.
A truly excellent online course. The teacher is really engaging and not only makes the essentials of music reading (and writing) easy to understand but makes the whole learning process fun as well. I would highly recommend this course [Music Fundamentals] for anyone interested in learning to read music who doesn’t know where to start. You won’t regret it!
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]
Excellent teaching, and easy learning techniques. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
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.
I’ve learned so much from my teacher that I wasn’t able to learn from singing lessons elsewhere.
Great [voice] teacher, very friendly as well. She put a lot of effort into finding new ways to improve my singing.
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.
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!
My [piano] teacher is so enthusiastic, encouraging and knowledgeable.
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]
Great teachers and a great environment. I have improved my musical abilities a lot thanks to the school. [voice student]
My child benefited from individual attention from an excellent teacher in a small group. [Introducing Violin for Children]
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.
Gabriele is such a friendly and helpful [violin] teacher. [My daughter] felt really comfortable with him as he made the lessons so enjoyable.
Great school with really great teachers, who have a lovely way with children. We would definitely recommend! [mother of Introducing Violin for Children student]
Studying Irish fiddle here has been a most enjoyable learning experience, with nice tunes and a great teacher. This has been an ideal opportunity to learn Irish fiddle.
Experience with my [drum kit] teacher has been fantastic. He’s a great teacher with lots of patience – encouraging and really passionate.
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!
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!
You really develop an appreciation of the Irish tradition and culture. The teacher was great. [Irish Music Tasters]
The Introducing Bodhrán course was great! John is an excellent teacher and he is really passionate about music. I enjoyed the classes and also discovered some Irish trad music while learning. Highly recommend it. Thanks!
Super [guitar] teacher who really listens.
Michael is a really enthusiastic and capable teacher. I enjoyed both his humour and his teaching methods. He’s very patient and encouraging. [Introducing Harmonica]
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.
My son is on his second term of piano lessons and he absolutely adores it, loves the teacher, and I have to say I can’t speak highly enough of all staff too.
We have a fantastic guitar teacher. His teaching style is so relaxed and as somebody who was an absolute beginner, I cannot believe how much I have learned in such a short space of time. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
Very well explained by an interested and enthusiastic teacher. [Introducing Music Technology]
My voice teacher is caring, kind and hard working, and I feel I have improved so much.
Great teacher, full of knowledge, who made the [Introducing Bodhrán] classes fun and incorporated extra teaching tools to go above and beyond.
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.
Our teacher brought me in the world of jazz (one that I didn’t know at all) with great skills, a perfect choice of songs, and a practical approach that made me enjoy the singing and at the same time gave me the desire to learn more about the theory of this music. Highly recommended for any singer or any lover of singing! [Jazz Vocal Workshop]
This place is an oasis flowing with the love of music, with a great atmosphere and teachers. [jazz piano student]
A pleasure to spend an hour doing something different with a genuinely passionate musician and totally nice bloke. [Irish Music Tasters]
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]
The Musical Theatre Workshop is just an amazing course. Sinéad is a fantastic teacher – encouraging and honest. Having done the course twice now, I find it has really helped me with my confidence in performing and also in my everyday life. Even my seniors in work have noticed the change, so thanks Sinéad!
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.
I had Grade 8 piano (and had been teaching for years) but thought it was high time to get a teaching diploma and ‘proper’ qualification, so I decided to take private lessons with Waltons New School of Music. My piano teacher was excellent – friendly, supportive and thorough – and after a solid year of study (and a lot of practice!) I passed the diploma exam (Associated Board) with distinction. Thank you Waltons!
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.
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.
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.
I recently started learning bass guitar in the school and couldn’t be happier. David Mooney is a great teacher, and I’m really enjoying my lessons. I appreciate his vast music knowledge and experience, his flexibility and his passion for teaching and for the instrument he teaches – passion that he is really able to transfer to students. We explore many music genres and techniques in my lessons, and at the same time I’m learning improvisation, which I really love because it gives space to creativity. If you want to learn bass guitar, I would definitely recommend lessons here. The school is a guarantee for music lovers. If I only could, I’d take everything they offer!
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.
Introducing Irish Fiddle was a really enjoyable course. All of the tunes I learned were broken down and made easy to learn and pick up. The teacher was extremely helpful, accommodating and approachable, and this gave me the confidence in going on to learn the fiddle.
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.
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.
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 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.
Excellent teaching skills, very good interpersonal skills – and also very patient! It has been a pleasure to attend [guitar] lessons with John.
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!
Sinéad is everything you could ask for in a teacher – supportive, good humoured and puts a huge effort into helping you improve and develop, overcoming your weak points and mastering your strengths. [Musical Theatre Workshop]
With a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and excellent teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed this online course. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
I’m taking singing lessons, and I really like my teacher’s approach of going with the ‘natural’ voice. I also like that the school is inclusive of ‘mature’ students. And finally, as I’m not able to travel into town for lessons, online lessons give me the opportunity to continue.
Overall, this a very welcoming school, accepting of beginners of all ages without compromising high musical standards and the pursuit of excellence.
Professional, friendly and fun. Learned a lot about singing [with a] very enthusiastic and knowledgeable teacher. [Introducing Singing for Adults]
I was an experienced amateur singer before joining Waltons for singing lessons, but my voice would hurt me. Ana, my teacher, taught me to unlock power I didn’t know that I had in my voice in the space of a month. After six months, I now have much more power, control and comfort while singing, and I feel like I can still improve a lot more. I have found my own teacher and the school staff encouraging and helpful, particularly around more stressful times like concerts. I have already recommended the school to several people.
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.
A great course [Introducing Harmonica]. The teacher was very passionate about it, and I think all the students thoroughly enjoyed it. I did!
I really like the structure of Gabriela’s piano lessons and that we work on two things at once! She’s a great teacher for an adult beginner and is very encouraging.
Gabriele is a very professional and responsible violin teacher. The service at the school is excellent, and the reception is always very friendly.
John is a great guitar teacher. He helped me understand the instrument / fret board a lot more and helped me to correct bad habits.
A very accessible beginner’s guitar course [Introducing Guitar for Adults]. The teacher was excellent, with great enthusiasm and expertise. I’ve taken two courses so far (Guitar and Bodhrán) and both have been excellent.
My fiddle teacher is really helpful and encouraging. I always leave my lessons feeling more confident about my playing. Thanks!
I have such a supportive and encouraging Irish fiddle tutor with endless patience, who instantly puts me at ease and who I could not rate highly enough. A total credit to the school.
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.
An incredible player and inspiring teacher! [Introducing World Drumming]
Excellent online course, great teacher, highly recommended. [Summer Music Technology Essentials]
I have the best [guitar] teacher in the world!
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 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 group classes are a great way for mature beginners to take the plunge in learning a new instrument. Good value for money too. [Introducing and Improvers Irish Fiddle student]
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.
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 informative. 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 lessons so enjoyable. You can see 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 who is interested in taking up an instrument, as I feel that you’re in good hands, you’re getting value for your money and you will ultimately come out of there a far better musician than when you went in.
Great way to get started with the guitar! [I have] a very thorough and patient instructor, with good choice of content for the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] classes. I have found that my playing has improved greatly.
I find Dav’s [voice] lessons to be excellent and fun. My voice has improved greatly, and her relaxed style makes the lessons very enjoyable. Highly recommended.
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 induction course. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] The teacher was relatable, approachable and knew what he was talking about.
All the fundamentals were covered, which gave us the best foundations for learning how to play the violin correctly. Terrific teacher, and the atmosphere of the [Introducing Violin for Adults] classes was always great and positive. I had fun at every class. Thank you.
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.
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]
Thanks to all in the New School for arranging such professional tuition with such experienced staff.
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.
Excellent teacher and class environment in which to (re)learn singing! [Introducing Singing for Adults]
My daughter has been taking violin lessons in the school for over a year now, and both her and my experience has been fantastic. From the quality of time her teachers have given her, to the promptness and informed interactions with the office staff, I couldn’t recommend Waltons New School of Music highly enough.
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.
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!
Great experience – highly recommend it. Excellent teacher and notes, very well explained and easy to understand. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
My [piano] teacher was very encouraging and interested in progressing her student.
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.
I have such a great [violin] teacher. I’d recommend her to anyone.
Harry is an excellent teacher who plans a really great term of music – challenging, enjoyable, interesting. He always has a great story and background history of the pieces and is always encouraging and upbeat. He teaches the whistle, but he also fosters a love of Irish music. Really enjoy the Monday classes. [Introducing Tin Whistle student]
This has been a most enjoyable and fulfilling learning experience. My [guitar] teacher is a classy, professional but very much down-to-earth guy. He puts you at ease and is hugely encouraging and supportive. On my first visit I was a little tentative on arrival. His style is to engage and listen, and I immediately felt comfortable and assured. Since then I’ve genuinely enjoyed every minute of these sessions. Don’t think I can say that about too many experiences of anything I’ve been involved with over the years!
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]
I decided to take the [Ableton Live Basics] course because I had Ableton Live Lite software that came bundled with some gear I’d bought, and I had no idea how to use it. The course far exceeded my expectations. I’d imagined a course that would give me a couple of tips for using Ableton Live more effectively, but our teacher provided us with so much more. I now realise why Ableton Live is such a popular software – and I now have a very good idea of what it can do!
Great location, friendly staff…excellent [double bass] teacher and good opening hours.
Really enjoyed the [Trad Guitar Basics] course and John – he is a wealth of knowledge!
Waltons’ music lessons are world class. The teachers go out of their way to encourage their students and make the lessons more enjoyable for them.
Really enjoying learning bodhrán with such a great teacher. I just wish I’d discovered these online lessons sooner!
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!
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]
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.
I would highly recommend Harry Long to anyone wanting to take up tin whistle. He is a patient and encouraging tutor. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
Good atmosphere, enthusiastic and supportive teacher, and small class size. This course [Trad Guitar Basics] helped me take another important step towards becoming a better guitar player.
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.
What I like most about my low whistle lessons with Harry are his patience, his friendliness, his proficiency with the instrument, his knowledge of traditional Irish music and his keenness to impart that knowledge. [online student]
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!
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.
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.
My daughter really enjoys her drum lessons and is learning a lot of new concepts. Her teacher is friendly and professional, and his encouragement has been very motivating. Communications from the school have always been clear.
Dave is an excellent (and patient) electric bass teacher, and I always look forward to our lessons. If you’re a late starter (or restarter) like me, don’t be intimidated – give it a go!
Can’t speak highly enough of my singing tutor. As a novice to singing beyond the privacy of my shower, her personal attention and interest in helping me to discover my singing voice has been invaluable.
The lesson was very good and the teacher was great, encouraging and relaxed. [Irish Music Tasters]
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]
My concertina lessons are great. Learning music for the first time as an adult is very scary, but my teacher had the greatest patience and taught me many tunes. I progressed a lot, and that’s all her merit. She is a very knowledgeable and skilled musician, but she’s also a great teacher. It is very difficult to find both things in the same person.
All together I would give the [Introducing Guitar for Teens] course out of 10 – great teacher, great staff, great facilities – Waltons has it all.
Fantastic [Trad Guitar Basics] teacher with stellar enthusiasm.
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.
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]
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!
The teacher’s easy manner gave me the courage to have a go even if I wasn’t getting things right. By my own reckoning I have made huge progress since I began the [Sight Singing Made Easy] course.
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.
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.
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]
My time as a student in Waltons New School of Music over the past two years has been invaluable. My singing teacher Sinéad has opened new doors for me by teaching me how to improve my vocal techniques, and she also introduced me to the world of musical theatre. The lessons have been wonderful experiences and have encouraged me to go further on my musical journey.
Very relaxed, friendly approach. Paddy encourages everyone to ask questions and is great at demonstrating. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
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.
Michael has an encyclopaedic knowledge of harmonica and the blues. He gives great encouragement to his students whilst showing great patience. [Introducing Harmonica]
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.
Excellent teacher. Excellent revision. [Leaving Cert. Music Pre-Exam Revision Workshop]
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 had always been fond of the piano but had no training, theoretical or practical. The [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] course I took introduced me to both, and with what I learned I’ve have been able to continue my tuition independently. Our teacher was lovely, patient and thorough, and she made the course very enjoyable, user friendly and easy to understand. I’m happy to say I still use the tools she provided in my practice today. A great online course, and good value as well!
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.
Loved the way you get to express yourself…. Sinéad gets the best out of you, and it is so much fun! [Musical Theatre Workshop]
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 singing teacher is very professional and knowledgeable and tailored my lessons to suit my needs. She is also easy to build a rapport with.
I have been taken singing [Intensive Lessons] for the past three years. Early on, I decided not to stick to one teacher so I could benefit from different approaches, and the standard of teaching from all the teachers I’ve had has been uniformly excellent.
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!
Great fun, amazing teacher, loved every class! [Introducing Ukulele for Adults]
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.
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 learned so much…. The teacher was excellent with a wide knowledge of the field. [Introducing Music Technology]
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 can’t say enough good things about Waltons New School of Music! My toddler has been taking [Making Music (Ages 3-4)] 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!
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.
I started to play cello in my senior years, and my in-school lessons with Enrien have been invaluable. He has given me a great introduction to the basics of cello playing. The school staff have always been helpful, and the school’s city centre location has been great.
There is a really pleasant atmosphere. The teachers are always available and proactive, as well as the people who work at reception.
I love my voice teacher. She’s really friendly and thoughtful, and I enjoy studying with her so much!
My [guitar] teacher is engaging and has broad and deep musical and technical knowledge that has improved my playing considerably.
The teacher explained everything clearly and efficiently [and] made the complicated works easier to grasp. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Relaxed and friendly atmosphere, helpful staff, great teachers.
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)
I’ve really enjoyed my online lessons. I had tried learning banjo with YouTube videos but found the whole experience frustrating and difficult. Now I have progressed faster with just a few lessons (so far) with a great teacher than I had when trying to learn myself for over a year!
I would definitely recommend the New School to my friends because of the great experience I’ve had with my daughter’s guitar lessons and the progress she has made over such a short period of time. The teachers work very well with their students, and it’s a fun learning environment.
Clear and confident [clarinet] teacher.
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’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!
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.
Friendly admin. staff and great teachers. Very pleased overall.
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!
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.
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]
The online summer courses are a great opportunity, and the teaching is of a high standard. [jazz violin student]
The teacher’s approach to teaching the tin whistle is brilliant. He started gently (which I needed) and brought everyone along. There’s also a mix of Irish music appreciation that works for me. I’d recommend this class [Introducing Tin Whistle] for anyone interested in learning to play traditional music.
I absolutely loved learning to play the harmonica. Michael McInerney’s love for the harmonica is infectious! [Introducing Harmonica]
Every topic covered, with plenty of tips for higher marks. Very helpful, with an exam oriented and enthusiastic teacher. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Our teachers are listed in alphabetical order by surname. You can also filter teachers by department or area.
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- 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
