Monday 22nd – Friday 26th July 2024 | 10am – 1pm | Ulster University, York Street, BT15 1ED

All-Ireland solo champion, Pádraig Rynne is best known for his virtuosic playing of the concertina and his significant contributions to contemporary traditional Irish music. As a leading figure in the modern Irish music scene, Rynne has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of traditional Irish music, integrating it with various genres including jazz, world music, and electronic dance music. He has founded several influential bands that have contributed to the modern landscape of Irish music, including Cian, Guidewires, Triad, Atlantic Arc, Breen l Rynne l Murray and the groundbreaking band Notify. 

As a solo artist, Rynne has released several acclaimed albums that highlight his virtuosity on the concertina and his inventive musical arrangements. His work is characterized by a deep respect for traditional Irish music while embracing innovation and experimentation. 

Steeped in the concertina tradition of her native Co. Clare, Lorraine Ní Bhriain began her musical education under the guidance of the legendary teacher, Frank Custy. With further tuition from such greats as Dympna O’Sullivan and Noel Hill, Lorraine has developed into one of the leading concertina players in her own right. She holds a B.A. Music from Trinity College, Dublin and M.A. Music Therapy from the University of Limerick.

The Summer School’s team of tutors is made up of internationally renowned performers with proven track records as teachers and educationalists. The primary means of teaching and learning will be ‘by ear’ with an emphasis in the less experienced classes of assisting pupils to develop oral/aural skills in addition to instrumental competency and developing core repertoire. All classes are designed for intermediate to advanced (minimum 2 years instrument experience) adults and children over 6 years of age except beginner instrument classes, whistle and sing, set dancing, sean nós dancing, traditional singing & sean nós singing which are suitable for all levels including beginners.