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
Relaxed but progressive atmosphere. Excellent tuition. Professional teacher. [Introducing Singing for Adults]
A pleasure to spend an hour doing something different with a genuinely passionate musician and totally nice bloke. [Irish Music Tasters]
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]
Great teacher, full of knowledge, who made the [Introducing Bodhrán] classes fun and incorporated extra teaching tools to go above and beyond.
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.
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!
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.
The teacher is great at providing a fun environment for learning. [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)]
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 child benefited from individual attention from an excellent teacher in a small group. [Introducing Violin for Children]
I had a great time enjoying my passion for singing in a friendly atmosphere, and discovering new skills step by step with a very patient teacher who brings you as high as possible. An experience I advise for anyone interested in singing. [Jazz Vocal Workshop]
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!
Every week at my [guitar] lessons is a new and positive experience. I appreciate my teacher’s expertise greatly and feel lucky for the opportunity to continue learning from him. Waltons New School of Music is very professional and has a friendly, welcoming environment.
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.
My teacher was so engaged and tailored the lessons to my wants and needs. [Irish banjo student]
I have a very understanding and helpful voice teacher who’s great at getting me to pronounce some tricky Italian words! I also really like the convenience of online lessons with no need to travel.
I absolutely loved learning to play the harmonica. Michael McInerney’s love for the harmonica is infectious! [Introducing Harmonica]
Excellent [violin] teacher with great insight into what I needed. The school has nice friendly atmosphere and high-quality lessons.
My [drum kit] teacher made it very easy to learn the drums, as he broke each skill down into its elements. Also, the drum kit here is fantastic.
I honestly didn’t think I would get so much out of online singing lessons, but my teacher’s just brilliant and I have learned loads. I live much too far from Dublin to come to the school on a regular basis, so online tuition has been a great experience for me.
Great foundation for a jazz beginner. The teacher has a very positive, open and encouraging approach. [Jazz Piano Basics]
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!
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.
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]
Clear and confident [clarinet] teacher.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 came back to guitar lessons in middle age and have found that I can pick up my skills and still learn to a high level, with a collaborative and supportive teacher. He really tunes into what music I like to play, understands what skills I need to work on and gives me very good guidance for practising. It has been most beneficial and enjoyable.
I had no music background, but the teacher was very helpful and made it very enjoyable. I really enjoyed the [Introducing Violin for Adults] classes. Thanks!
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 an excellent piano teacher – she is very patient, friendly and encouraging at all times. She also has the brilliant ability to break down the more complex aspects of a piece into simpler parts, which makes it easier to understand and learn them. She has a great technical knowledge of the piano and music theory as well.
I love the atmosphere that Siobhán creates for my voice lessons and how encouraging she is. I always feel so good walking out of lessons with her, even if I felt the opposite going in! I can see my improvement each week as well, which has been so motivating.
My fiddle teacher is really helpful and encouraging. I always leave my lessons feeling more confident about my playing. Thanks!
I learned so much…. The teacher was excellent with a wide knowledge of the field. [Creative Music Production]
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 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.
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 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.
Great school. Very good, caring teachers make learning enjoyable.
A fantastic opportunity to go over the course with a lecturer who really knows his stuff. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
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!
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 went initially to Marta Natoniewska for some Intensive Lessons about 8 years ago. I had zero confidence in relation to singing, as I hadn’t sung since my school days. I doubted my ability and wondered if it was too late to learn, as I coming up to retirement age. But I was keen to learn, and she was so nice and encouraging. I have now been taking weekly lessons since March 2024. My confidence and technique have improved dramatically, thanks to Marta. I am enjoying the experience immensely and am amazed at how much I have learned. I also recently decided to take singing exams. There was absolutely no pressure to do so, as it’s optional. But I am really enjoying the challenge under Marta’s guidance and encouragement. I often recommend her to others considering singing lessons. [voice student]
Sinéad is amazing, and Waltons students are lucky to have her! I learned so much in such a short time, and it’s all thanks to her and her passion! [Musical Theatre Workshop]
Enjoyed every [voice] lesson due to the support and encouragement, energy and enthusiasm of my teacher.
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!
My banjo teacher is both patient and encouraging, and the lessons are very informative. I’m very happy with my online lessons and plan to continue.
I’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!
My violin teacher completely accommodated my ambition to progress quickly in learning the instrument, starting from absolutely no experience.
I always look forward to my tin whistle classes in Waltons New School of Music. The teacher’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge are so infectious – you come away learning far more than you would in a typical class. [Introducing Tin Whistle student]
My son has made great progress with the saxophone while studying here. While he has worked hard himself, much of this is down to the teacher, who has been both patient and motivating.
Excellent teaching, and easy learning techniques. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
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]
The guitar teachers at Waltons School of Music are brilliant. I would recommend them to anyone. Shame the term is over.
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.
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 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.
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’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!
I have really enjoyed my private piano lessons, which are tailored to my needs. My teacher is meticulous and passionate and very kind. And the school staff are professional and good at communication. The New School has reignited my love for music and piano. I felt supported and guided to complete my Grade 7 exam after years of taking a break from piano.
I really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and our teacher’s enthusiasm and dedication to teaching us how to play. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
The best singing teacher I have ever had – have learned so much.
Paddy is an excellent banjo teacher and quite an amazing banjo player. The classes were very enjoyable and instructive. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
Everyone is back home and more-or-less recovered from the short nights and travel, and can look back with a lot of pleasure on the fine weekend in Dublin. I would like to thank you for all your work in engaging the wonderful teachers, finding the classroom space, and having it all work out in timing and pricing. Thanks also for passing on my many requests to the teachers! I know it took quite some time, but it really helped make it the right kind of course for my pupils. I’m very grateful that the school and the teachers were willing to be flexible! I would also like to thank your colleagues…for the warm welcome, and for making us feel at home in the school.
Huge thanks too to all the teachers: John, Éamonn, Harry and Aoife. They were fabulous! The course was a great success for my students, and I would definitely be happy to work with Waltons New School of Music again. [Irish Music Tasters]
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.
Loved the way you get to express yourself…. Sinéad gets the best out of you, and it is so much fun! [Musical Theatre Workshop]
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.
My classical guitar teacher has a huge knowledge of music and vast experience in the music industry (just Google his name and you will be impressed!). He can explain the most difficult things in a simple and comprehensible way. I was a complete beginner when I started, and I can’t believe how fast I’m learning and how much I’m enjoying the lessons and playing this instrument. I would recommend Waltons New School of Music to anyone who wants to explore the mind-blowing world of classical guitar.
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!
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.
The very positive approach by the teacher was so encouraging! [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
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.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Art & Craft of Songwriting workshop with Melanie O’Reilly. I found the content very interesting and informative, and I’m continuously putting it into practice in my writing. Melanie is a brilliant teacher, enjoyable and fun to listen to. She has so much knowledge and experience, and the course has helped me to get a grasp on how to go about writing a song with a structure. It was also a lovely way of meeting people with similar interests, and we still keep in touch. I would highly recommend the course.
Really enjoyed the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] course, delivered online. We had a very good teacher, calm and relaxed but pushing us at the right times too. He engaged very well with us as students and was very encouraging. I was starting from scratch, and by the end of the course I was able to play through several songs from start to finish – albeit not expertly – and that, for me, was a great result. Would highly recommend this course to any adult learners looking to start playing the guitar.
Excellent teaching skills, very good interpersonal skills – and also very patient! It has been a pleasure to attend [guitar] lessons with John.
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]
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.
A great [guitar] teacher – patient, organised, knows when to step back and when to push, very adaptable and knowledgeable.
My son is really enjoying his piano lessons at Waltons and is very impressed with his teacher. He is encouraged in a positive manner.
I thoroughly enjoyed [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] and can’t wait to continue and fulfil my lifelong dream of playing the piano! And I couldn’t recommend my teacher enough. He is fantastic – so clear, thorough and patient, and an excellent communicator.
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!
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 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.
This course [Sight Singing Made Easy] is a great way to learn sight singing with an excellent teacher. I’ve sung with a few choirs over the years, but I always had to learn the music either by ear or with recordings. What a pleasure it is now to just pick up a written song or piece of music and sing it!
I was delighted that my concert flute teacher set very good challenges for me and that my online lessons were so enjoyable.
Dave Mooney is an excellent bass guitar teacher who has made [my son] the musician he is today.
I found the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] course very enjoyable and very much looked forward to my hour class every week. My teacher created a very relaxed and fun learning environment and managed to include enough variation for me to have a good understanding of guitar playing. Will be continuing classes in the next term.
Great [voice] teacher. I have developed so much in the past year [and] have learned so much technique. We get through a lot in a 30-minute lesson; it’s very productive.
Harry is a great teacher, with a passion for Irish music that is infectious. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
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.
The [Introducing Violin for Children] course exceeded my expectations. The teacher was kind and engaging. I was impressed that music theory was included from the first lesson so the students could begin to read the music they played. My son could see his own progress over the 10 weeks, and we look forward to continuing his tuition here.
I’ve gained so much since I’ve taken [Musical Theatre Workshop] classes here. My confidence has grown immensely, and I’ve come on as both a singer and performer. Sinéad is an amazing teacher who has pushed me out of my comfort zone and believed in me so that I can reach my full potential and be the best performer that I can possibly be.
I am hugely enjoying my piano lessons and really like my teacher’s approach. I have made great progress in the last year.
I’ve really enjoyed Paddy’s [5-string banjo] lessons. I like has laidback teaching style, and I’m really pleased with the progress I’ve made over last two terms under Paddy’s tuition. Looking forward to continuing! I’ve also found online lessons to be particularly useful and productive. Travelling to Dublin for a lesson would not make sense. Very happy to recommend Waltons to anyone looking for music lessons.
I’ve really enjoyed my piano lessons with Dan. He is very creative, with an ‘out of the box’ approach, and with his patience made me feel comfortable from the very beginning. I am starting to feel a lot more confident and have a better musical mindset. [online student]
The teacher was very easy to understand and was willing to answer any questions. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
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 experience – highly recommend it. Excellent teacher and notes, very well explained and easy to understand. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
David is calm and understanding teacher who is very good at explaining and imparting his knowledge of the violin. Would definitely recommend. And it’s convenient and easy to take online lessons on my laptop from home. I have had a very good experience with the school overall – great teachers and helpful staff in the school office.
I’m very grateful to my flute teacher for his patience while I was taking my time to play some high notes properly! In my 2nd year at Waltons, I am able to enjoy playing my favourite tunes!
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.
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.
Great atmosphere, and the [Introducing World Drumming] classes were taught clearly and with enthusiasm. Brian is a great teacher, very patient and professional.
I asked Waltons New School of Music if they could help through their Music at Work programme with a corporate meeting using bodhráns to demonstrate the power of rhythm in a business context. The process was a real pleasure, and everyone I dealt with was knowledgeable and helpful. The session itself was facilitated by Éamonn Galldubh. Ahead of time, Éamonn quickly understood what we wanted to achieve and worked collaboratively on ideas to make the session a success. On the day he quickly established both his credibility and a rapport with the audience. He was a fantastic teacher, had just the right balance of humour, understood perfectly the messages we wanted to incorporate and worked seamlessly with the team without any rehearsal.
The session was a resounding success and exceeded my expectations; our team not only got the messages but had so much fun to boot. Waltons handled all the logistics, and I would recommend them to anyone considering a similar event. A first class service. [Irish Music Tasters]
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.
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.
A wonderful music school with a broad range of courses, excellent teachers and a friendly approach. I would be happy to recommend the New School to anyone. [Irish harp student]
I like the super friendly staff (both office and teachers), great location and ability to adapt individual tuition to your own pace and time commitments.
A very patient teacher. She moves the [Introducing Irish Fiddle] class at just the right pace to push you forward, but she doesn’t leave anyone behind.
I have a very friendly and understanding voice teacher. I learned a lot from the lessons, and she has a wealth of knowledge. She approached the lessons with ease, and I felt comfortable singing with her. I looked forward to my lessons every week and I would highly recommend her to other students who wish to pursue voice/singing lessons. I also like that there are both online and in-person tuition options. I found it difficult to find online singing lessons, and it was very beneficial for me as I do not live in the greater Dublin area and I am on the move a lot. Waltons New School of Music offers a great range of subjects and a large variety of instruments to learn. The enrolment process was straightforward, and their communication regarding enrolment and finalising lessons was very quick and efficient.
Excellent course. Eoin makes what some would consider a dry subject both interesting and engaging. And being able to read music has opened up a whole new world for me! [Music Fundamentals]
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 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]
Paul instilled in my son a great interest in playing drums. What started as an attempt to make a boy with too much free time a bit busier has turned into a full-fledged hobby for him. What I like best about the school are its great teachers and personnel, convenient location and great communication with parents and students.
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!
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.
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]
Dav is a very talented [voice] teacher who is especially skilled in dealing with adult students.
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.
John made learning the bodhrán such fun. Looked forward every week to the class. [Introducing Bodhrán student]
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.
I enjoyed the [Introducing Singing for Adults] course immensely and learned a lot. The teacher was excellent and I liked the whole welcoming set up in Waltons New School of Music.
I’ve been taking online lessons, and my guitar teacher has inspired me to start playing again after 30 years. He’s a super teacher and sends me helpful notes straight after each lesson. I’ve been learning more and more difficult guitar pieces after my initial tentative lockdown attempt to restart lessons.
Thoroughly enjoyed the course [Musical Theatre Workshop]. Sinéad is a super teacher!
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.
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.
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!
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 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.
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 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.
The teacher had an excellent knowledge of music and inspired me! Extremely good notes…easy to apprehend. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
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.
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.
Our teacher made the technology very accessible, and he has an easy, pleasant teaching manner. [Creative Music Production]
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.
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 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.
Thanks to all in the New School for arranging such professional tuition with such experienced staff.
I have a great flute teacher who explains everything very clearly.
My personal experience is that Waltons New School of Music has a long tradition of fostering musical talent in its students, and the teachers there have continued that tradition with respect, flexibility, skill and creativity. I really enjoy working with my Irish harp teacher, who has helped me develop my own skills and style at my own pace.
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!
Great location, friendly staff…excellent [double bass] teacher and good opening hours.
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.
Peter Dobai, my saxophone teacher, tailors my online lessons perfectly to match my needs. I am 66 and already play jazz guitar, so I have a little knowledge but need a lot of input on theory, etc. I’ve already recommended Peter as a very versatile teacher who moulds his instruction to the needs of his students.
I enrolled [for voice lessons] to improve my ability to sing in a choir. I made a lot of progress quickly with Ana, with technical advice that helped me to sing better and more confidently. The lessons, which were based on the foundation of classical technique, were very enjoyable as well, and I am looking forward to further explorations in the new term. Thanks, Ana!
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.
My [piano] teacher very quickly discovers a student’s best way of learning and uses that to the student’s advantage. She is also very approachable.
Melanie is a very talented teacher, and her [Sing & Swing Jazz Vocal Ensemble] classes are a joy. She has a natural flair for communicating her extensive knowledge of jazz and swing music with infectious enthusiasm and fun. There was a lovely dynamic in our group, and we all learned to sing great songs with impressive rhythm and harmony.
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]
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!
Very good course and atmosphere…. [My son] loved the teacher, different instruments and other children. Interaction helped him to ‘come out of his shell’. [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)]
I can’t speak too highly of Waltons New School of Music and of Paddy Kiernan’s tuition for the banjo. I love what I am learning and go away from each [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class more motivated to learn.
If you are looking to learn a new instrument, or how to sing, I couldn’t recommend Waltons New School of Music enough. It’s centrally located so is easy to get to, and the teachers are experts in their fields. The classes are taught in a relaxed environment, and they will no doubt leave you confident and competent in your chosen discipline. [Introducing Singing for Adults student]
I’ve been enjoying my piano lessons very much and have learned so much over the past few months since I started to learn the piano. Luke is a brilliant teacher, is very good at explaining new concepts so that I can understand them as a beginner, is super patient and encouraging and makes the lessons fun and challenging.
Really enjoyable piano for beginners course. I feel like I learnt a lot in ten weeks. Our teacher was great, really patient and encouraging. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
Great induction course. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults] The teacher was relatable, approachable and knew what he was talking about.
Great course [Songwriting Workshop]. Really enjoyed having someone walk me through a scary new thing, with great skill and experience.
The [Introducing Singing for Adults] course is a truly uplifting and fantastic experience. We have an amazing teacher who has great patience and brings humour to our classes, so that we’re always relaxed.
I don’t think anyone wanting to learn jazz piano could find a better teacher than Johnny Taylor.
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]
I’ve always wanted to play drums, but I didn’t know where to begin. I saw that Waltons offers one-off Intensive Lessons, took the plunge and haven’t looked back! The teacher was so helpful and encouraging that I decided to enrol for regular drum kit lessons and buy an electronic kit. I’m hugely enjoying the experience.
I approached the school with a certain goal in mind – to undertake the LCME exams – so my ukulele lessons were tailored for this purpose, which was brilliant. John is a great teacher; he is very patient, knowledgeable and generous with his time, and he provides good advice on how to approach the pieces. I’ve learnt more about music theory, the fretboard and improved my playing skills in the past year than I have in many years playing in ukulele sessions and bands.
My child loved the [Introducing Guitar for Teens] class and the teacher. She’s learned a lot.
A very enjoyable course [Introducing Singing for Adults]. The teacher was very experienced and all participants improved hugely, even shrinking violets!
Excellent [voice] teacher. Excellent school. Thanks for giving me the confidence to get in touch with my real singing voice. Music is one of the greatest gifts we have been blessed with.
Cathy is a fantastic and supportive instructor. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it! [Sing Your Heart Out Choir]
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!
The online summer courses are a great opportunity, and the teaching is of a high standard. [jazz violin student]
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]
Amazing classes with incredible teachers. Don’t be afraid and think you can’t sing. This school will show you how everyone can be a singer and truly be happy after every single class. [Introduction to Song Performance student]
I would recommend the [Creative Music Production] 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. We also had an excellent, patient and hands-on teacher.
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.
Really enjoyed my time at this school. Friendly, professional, with excellent teachers and lovely office staff. Highly recommended.
Great classes [Introducing World Drumming] and even better teacher – very knowledgeable and gives attention to everyone in the group.
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!
Great teacher, with great patience, who tries to get the best from my son at every [drum kit] lesson, while making it fun.
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.
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!
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.
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 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!
You really develop an appreciation of the Irish tradition and culture. The teacher was great. [Irish Music Tasters]
Very relaxed, friendly approach. Paddy encourages everyone to ask questions and is great at demonstrating. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
Great [voice] teacher, very friendly as well. She put a lot of effort into finding new ways to improve my singing.
Very professional and friendly school with excellent teachers. I really enjoyed studying here.
John is a really nice guy and a brilliant guitarist and teacher. To learn guitar from someone with such mastery of an instrument is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted. He tailors the lessons to what you’re interested in, which is another plus.
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
