PRIVATE LESSONS
In-Person and online
Deirdre offers private in-person traditional singing lessons for individuals and groups from her home in Ballina Co. Tipperary .
For over 20 years she has successfully taught many junior and senior traditional singers who have successfully competed at annual competitions at county, provincial and national fleadhanna.
Deirdre also offers online lessons via the Zoom platform, a medium which sees her teach a number of overseas students as well as students in other parts of Ireland.
Lesson periods begin from 30 minutes up to 1 hour.
For a chat about options, lesson details and fees please contact Deirdre via the contact form below.
Below is a list of frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT DOES DEIRDRE TEACH?
Traditional singing in Irish and English in the Munster Style. Traditional singing is usually unaccompanied. While Irish singing is often highly ornamented, the Munster style is often a plainer style and easier to learn.
WHERE DOES DEIRDRE TEACH?
Deirdre is available for in-person lessons in North Tipperary and online via zoom and Skype. Please email her directly for more information: scanlandeirdre@gmail.com.
WHAT DOES A LESSON LOOK LIKE?
After initial lessons, students are encouraged to do their own vocal warm ups so that the focus can on learning Irish singing techniques and building repertoire. The more songs you know, the more likely the emotional connection can develop.
HOW LONG ARE LESSONS?
Lessons are between a half hour and one hour duration.
WHAT DOES A LESSON COST?
The cost depends on the length of the lesson. It also depends on the frequency.
Students are encouraged to sign up for blocks of lessons (4-7 lessons) in advance to maintain continuity in their musical journey.
HOW DO I PAY FOR MY LESSONS?
Lessons can for paid for via Revolut, PayPal is also accepted.
All lessons must be paid for in advance.
HOW OFTEN DO I TAKE LESSONS?
While different approaches work for different ages and stages; initially, regular lessons are of the greatest benefit. Weekly lessons are ideal.
It is recommended to purchase a lesson block in advance.
Lessons can be weekly, bi-monthly or monthly (please note fees will be reflected in frequency)
DO YOU PREPARE PEOPLE FOR COMHALTAS COMPETITION?
Yes. Deirdre is an all-Ireland champion herself and has experience in competition mentoring students to all-Ireland Fleadh championship success. She also has over three decades of experience as an adjudicator in Fleadh circles and a deep and nuanced understanding of the tradition.
DO I HAVE TO BE COMPETING TO TAKE LESSONS?
No, a great many of Deirdre's students are from all over the world, and of all ages and simply enjoy singing for themselves or singing in sessions or just the pure love of sharing in this musical tradition.
WHAT IS THE YOUNGEST AGE I CAN START MY CHILD?
Deirdre recommends starting no earlier than the age of eight (8) so they’ve had a little experience singing in school and singing for fun.
I LIVE IN ANOTHER TIME ZONE, CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE ME?
Yes, Deirdre teaches on Zoom and Skype all over the world.
I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION, CAN YOU HELP ME?
Yes, you can email Deirdre directly at scanlandeirdre@gmail.com (Irish time zone)
DOES DEIRDRE DO MENTORING & COACHING?
Yes, Deirdre has acted as a facilitator for many accomplished singers in helping them choose repertoire and develop personal style and technique.