Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School Music Class Levels

Unless otherwise noted in class descriptions, please use the following guidelines for music class level placements. If you are unsure which level is right for you, we encourage you to choose the level where you feel most comfortable participating and learning. Our instructors understand that students come from many musical backgrounds, and placement is intended to support a positive learning experience — not to be intimidating. If you have concerns or questions, please contact us.

Beginner (whistle, bodhran, beginner sampler classes): You have no or little experience playing the class’s listed instrument. These classes will teach the basic fundamentals of playing Irish tin whistle and bodhran (the Irish frame drum).

Intro (Irish fiddle and Guitar accompaniment classes, Intro to Irish flute workshop): You already comfortably play the class’s listed instrument, but have little or no experience playing Irish traditional music. Students comfortable with playing other styles (Old-Time, Bluegrass, Cajun, classical) and silver flute are welcome. As a general guideline, students in Intro level classes should be able to play:

• Scales in D and G major (also A major for fiddle); E, A, and B minor
• Basic bowing proficiency (fiddle)
• Transition between chords smoothly (guitar/bouzouki)

Intermediate: Intermediate classes are designed for students who already have a solid foundation on their instrument and some experience playing Irish traditional music.

You will likely feel comfortable in Intermediate classes if:

• You can learn and retain tunes at a moderate pace
• You are comfortable playing common Irish dance tunes such as reels and jigs
• You know a growing repertoire of tunes from memory
• You have some experience learning by ear, even if you still rely on notation at times
• You are beginning to use ornamentation and stylistic techniques in your playing
• You have participated in sessions, group classes, workshops, or informal ensemble playing

Intermediate students do not need to play perfectly or know extensive repertoire. These classes are meant to help you continue building confidence, repertoire, style, and fluency in Irish traditional music.

Advanced: Advanced classes are best suited for students with significant experience playing Irish traditional music and a strong level of comfort learning in a fast-paced environment.

You will likely feel comfortable in Advanced classes if:

• You can pick up tunes quickly by ear
• You regularly play tunes from memory at session tempo
• You are comfortable playing in sessions or ensemble settings
• You use ornamentation and stylistic variation naturally in your playing
• You have developed a substantial tune repertoire
• You actively listen to and learn from recordings, sessions, and other musicians

Advanced classes may move quickly and assume familiarity with Irish traditional music style, repertoire, and session practice.

Children

Children 11 years and older with some proficiency on an instrument may enroll in an adult class with the permission of the instructor. (You are responsible for your children; no adult supervision between classes.)

Instruments

Students must supply their own instruments. Some bodhráns are available to borrow during classes. A limited number of tin whistles are available for purchase at the Fáilte Desk.