FAQs

Summer School

Where is Belfast TradFest’s Summer School located?

Belfast TradFest Summer School of Traditional Music takes place within a campus that includes buildings in and around the Ulster University in Belfast. A small number of events take place outside grounds of the Ulster University.

Address: Ulster University, 2-24 York Street, Belfast, BT15 1AP.

Where does the masterclass registration take place for Belfast TradFest’s Summer School?

Click here to book your masterclass. Early booking is advised as masterclasses fill up quickly.

Registration for all morning masterclasses takes place from 9am on the first day of the Summer School (Monday) in the McCracken Building at Ulster University Belfast campus.

Registration for all afternoon masterclasses takes place from 1pm on the Monday.

Students will be assigned into their masterclasses and given direction to the location of their masterclass.

Further information will be emailed to students the week before the Summer School takes place.

Address: McCracken Building, Ulster University, 2-24 York Street, Belfast, BT15 1AP.

I am considering booking a masterclass, can you please provide some more information?

Each masterclass place includes five days tuition and free access to all afternoon events (excludes instrument clinics and any afternoon event that has been indicated). Most classes are designed for intermediate to advanced adults and children over six years of age with two years instrument experience - this is essential.

We also have a range of classes that are suitable for beginners including Whistle & Sing, Traditional Singing, Amhránaíocht/Sean Nós Singing, Sean-Nós Dancing, Set Dancing and beginner classes for Highland Bagpipes, Bodhrán and Tin Whistle.

We have an variety of masterclasses also taking place in the afternoon (2pm - 5pm) as well as the morning classes (10am - 1pm).

Do you know the age range of my class?

Most classes are attended by a variety of ages, unless otherwise indicated. Whistle & Sing is an introductory class suitable for children aged 5+. We also offer a Mixed Instruments adults only class for individuals aged 18+, you can find out more here.

Will there be sheet music provided at the masterclass?

The primary method of teaching is ‘by ear’ with a focus in the less experienced classes on helping pupils develop oral/aural skills alongside instrumental competency and building a core repertoire.

I have booked a masterclass, can you recommend accommodation?

Please note, our 2027 accommodation bookings have not yet opened.

We offer city centre accommodation at a fantastic price for Summer School participants. This accommodation is suitable for individuals, families and group bookings, please click here to find out more. We can only offer refunds or exchanges if an event has been cancelled or rescheduled. Please note that accommodation is non-refundable. 

I have booked a masterclass and received a confirmation email. Will I receive any further information?

Yes, we will email further information to all students a week before the Summer School begins.

I have already booked a masterclass but would like to change to a different instrument/class, can you help?

Please get in touch with us via info@belfasttradfest.com.

You’ve listed several tutors. Can I choose my masterclass tutor?

Unfortunately, we can't accept preferences for a specific tutor. 

I’m a masterclass student, do I need to buy a ticket online to attend the afternoon workshops and talks?

No, you do not need to buy a ticket online. Summer school students can access all workshops, talks & screenings for FREE, apart from instrument clinics. No prior booking required.

However, those not attending the Summer School / members of the public need to purchase tickets.

I have experience playing an instrument in a different genre, can I join a masterclass?

Yes, if you have two years of experience.

I'm in the Bodhrán for Beginners masterclass. Do I need to bring my own bodhrán?

This class is suitable for all experience levels - bodhráns are provided if necessary.

I was thinking of signing up for the Traditional Piano Accompaniment masterclass. I’ve played piano for 2 years but have never played accompanying traditional music on the piano. Is this masterclass suitable for me?

This masterclass is suitable for you. No previous experience in accompanying traditional music on piano is necessary. 

Please note, you will require your own keyboard & extension lead. If you keyboard doesn’t have a built-in speaker you will also need to bring your own amp.

Does Ulster University have dedicated parking?

Unfortunately, Ulster University has no dedicated parking spaces. Two recommended parking options are;

Saint Anne’s Square Car Park

• A short 3-minute walk to the University.

• Weekly tickets are available which are cheaper than purchasing daily tickets, find out more at Saint Anne’s Parking.

On Street Pay & Display Parking

• There is plenty of on-street parking surrounding Ulster University and Cathedral Quarter area.

• Spaces are often limited to a 2-4 hour maximum stay.

• Download the Just Park Mobile App for convenience, click here to find out more.

I would love to see what it looks like to attend the Summer School and festival.

Check out our festival gallery here. You can also read about previous festival experiences via Festival News & Blog.