​Lessons & Teaching​

What instruments do you teach?

Brendan teaches tin whistle, uilleann pipes, fiddle, mandolin, and beginner banjo. He also teaches session skills — how to play with others, session etiquette, and how to hold your own in a traditional Irish music session.

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What level do I need to be?

No level is required. Brendan teaches students of all ages and abilities — from complete beginners who have never touched an instrument to intermediate and advanced players looking to deepen their technique and musicality. For uilleann pipes and tin whistle he teaches beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. For fiddle and mandolin he teaches beginner and intermediate. For banjo he teaches beginner level.

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Do you teach children?

Yes. Brendan welcomes students of all ages. With a strong background in teaching from a young age and 25 years experience he will tailor every lesson to the individual, whatever their age or starting point. 

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I haven't played in years — is it too late to start again?

Not at all. Returning students are very welcome. Whether you put an instrument down five years ago or thirty, Brendan will meet you exactly where you are and help you find your way back to the music at your own pace.

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How long are lessons?

Lessons are available in 30-minute and 60-minute formats. For most students, particularly beginners, 60 minutes is the recommended starting point as it allows enough time to warm up, work on technique, learn repertoire, and finish with questions.

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How often should I take lessons?

Once a week is the most common and most effective rhythm for steady progress. That said, Brendan is flexible — fortnightly lessons work well for some students, particularly those with busy schedules. The most important thing is consistent practice between lessons.

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Do I need to own an instrument before my first lesson?

For your free consultation, no. Brendan is happy to talk through instrument options and give you guidance before you commit to buying anything. For paid lessons, yes — you will need access to the instrument you are learning. Brendan can advise on what to look for and what to avoid when purchasing.

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Online Lessons​

How does an online lesson work? 

Lessons take place via video call — Google Meet is recommended though other platforms can be arranged. You will receive a link before your lesson. All you need is your instrument, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.

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What equipment do I need?

A smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a working camera and microphone is sufficient for most students. A stable internet connection is important — a wired connection or strong WiFi is recommended. Headphones are optional but can help with audio clarity.

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What time zone do you teach in?

Brendan is based in County Louth, Ireland and teaches on Irish time (GMT in winter, IST — GMT+1 — in summer). He offers a range of morning, afternoon, and evening slots to accommodate students in Ireland, the UK, the United States, and Canada. Get in touch to discuss what works for your schedule.

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Booking & Payment​

Can I have a consultation before booking?

Yes — Brendan offers a free consultation for all new students. This is a short introductory call to discuss your instrument of interest, your current level, your goals, and any questions you have before committing to lessons. There is no obligation. Get in touch to arrange yours.

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How do I book?

Send Brendan a message via the contact form or by email with the instrument you would like to learn, your current level, and whether you are interested in online or in-person lessons. He will get back to you to arrange a free consultation and confirm your first lesson.

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What are the rates?

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• 30-minute lesson — €28

• 60-minute lesson — €50

• Starter pack — 4 × 60-minute lessons · €185 (save €15)

• Term pack — 10 × 60-minute lessons · €450 (save €50)

• Intensive — 20 × 60-minute lessons · €880 (save €120)
   

Packages are valid for six months from date of purchase.

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How do I pay?

Payment details will be confirmed at the time of booking. Bank transfer and online payment options are available.

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Do you offer payment plans for packages?

Yes. Payment plan options are available on request — get in touch to discuss what works for you.

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What is your cancellation policy?

Please give at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule a lesson. Lessons cancelled with less than 48 hours notice may be charged in full. Brendan understands that life happens — if something unexpected comes up, just get in touch as soon as possible and he will do his best to find a solution.

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In-Person Lessons

Where are in-person lessons available?

In-person lessons are available for students based in County Louth but can travel to Meath, Fingal and surrounding areas. Get in touch to discuss location and availability. Brendan can come to you!

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Tours & Experiences​

What is The Living Tradition tour?

The Living Tradition is an eight-day small-group cultural tour of Ireland hosted by Brendan — covering the music, landscapes, history, and living traditions of his home county and beyond. Sessions, céilí nights, castle dinners, ancient monuments, and music workshops, all shaped by Brendan's lifetime inside the Irish traditional music world. Limited to 20 guests. Running September 2027.

Find out more at Lark & Owl.

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What is Reel Retreat?

Reel Retreat is a three-day adult music camp offering hands-on workshops in fiddle, bodhrán, guitar, accordion, and tin whistle, with evening sessions, Irish language, dance, and folklore. A full musical immersion in a beautiful setting. Find out more at Lark & Owl.

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Anything Else?​

I have a question that isn't answered here.

Get in touch — Brendan is happy to answer any question, however big or small. No question is too basic and no situation too unusual. Reach out and he will get back to you promptly.

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