A famous singer in the Irish tradition has launched a series of free Irish sean-nós lessons ahead of St. Patrick’s Day.
Nell Ní Chróinín, lead singer of popular trad band Danú, has recorded three lessons for online learning platform Alison.com, which has launched a free series of traditional Irish music.
For her first lesson, Ní Chróinín will teach aspiring Irish sean-nós singers how to sing the traditional “Bog Braon” lullaby.
A host of other award-winning Irish artists will join Ní Chróinín in Alison.com’s new series, including renowned bodhrán Dermot Sheedy, flautist Brian O’Loughlin and violinist Doireann Ní Ghlacáin.
The series will also feature accordionist Conor O’Loughlin, button accordion champion Conor Connolly and guitarist Michael McCague, with new lessons released fortnightly.
Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, who presents live music broadcasts for Irish-language channel TG4, helped organize the recorded lessons, which were filmed by fellow musician Liam O’Brien.
“It was a pleasure to bring together some of the best artists I know to do these classes,” Ní Ghlacáin said in a statement.
“They are all experienced teachers as well as active musicians who are generous with their time and expertise. We have all learned our craft from those who have gone before us, and it is our responsibility and a privilege to pass on what we know to the next generation.”
Alison CEO Mike Feerick said in a statement that music was a powerful part of Irish culture that was brought to all corners of the world by Irish emigrants.
“If you’re going to learn to play a musical instrument, it’s wonderful to be able to learn from top experts for free, and that’s what this new series of free lessons from Alison offers.”
To learn more about free online courses, Click here.