Question 1

What classes/instruments are available?

Accepted Answer

We provide tuition in the following instruments:
Fiddle, Flute, Tin Whistle, Harp, Bodhran, Guitar, Tenor Banjo/Mandolin, Button Accordion, Concertina, Uilleann Pipes, Traditional Singing, and Beginners Highland Bagpipes.

These classes are offered at both beginner, intermediate and, in some cases, advanced levels.

Classes are generally mixed age groups, however we also have child and adult specific classes in some instruments.

Question 2

When are classes?

Accepted Answer

Classes take place on Thursday nights at 7.30pm - 8.30pm and 8.30pm - 9.30pm depending on instrument and level.

Classes take place in Edmund Rice College, Hightown Road, Glengormley.

Question 3

When can I join?

Accepted Answer

Registration takes place just before the start of each term. 
There are two terms each year.
For 2024, registration opens on 1 September 2024 and classes start on Thursday 12 September 2024.  Registration is now completed online via KlubFunder.

Question 4

Do I need to have my own instrument?

Accepted Answer

Some larger instruments are available to hire to beginners to see if it's the right instrument for them.

Please email us at gsotm.co.uk@gmail.com to enquire on availability.

Question 5

Is there any age limit?

Accepted Answer

In general, we welcome children from age 6 or 7 (Primary 3) and upwards.  
We also have specific classes for beginner adults in Tin Whistle and Fiddle, so we cater for all ages.

We would suggest contacting us if you have specific queries or come along to one of our Open Days to try an instrument and/or speak to one of the teachers directly.

Question 6

What and when is Grupai Cheoil?

Accepted Answer

Grupai Cheoil are when musicians of all instruments come together to perform arrangements of tunes, mostly for performances and competitions like the Fleadh.
These are broken up into 3 groups; U12, U15 and U18.
Practice take place are every Monday evening in ERC starting in November.
Please contact the school if your child is interested in joining.

Question 7

Are there any local seisiúns musicians can join?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have weekly seisiúns in the Crown and Shamrock bar in Mallusk.

Wednesday nights, from 8.30pm, are for older teens/young adults.
Sunday nights, from 8pm, are for adults.

We also help organise a monthly seisiún in 2 Royal Ave in Belfast - check out social media for latest dates.

Question 8

What are LCM exams and what is involved?

Accepted Answer

London College of Music Examinations (LCME) traditional music exams offer a structured, accredited pathway (Grades 1-8, plus diplomas) for Irish and Scottish traditional instruments, focusing on performance, technique, and repertoire. Validated by the University of West London, they include, but are not limited to, instruments like the fiddle, whistle, flute, accordion, and bodhrán. Exams are available in-person or via digital submission.

For more information in what is involved please check out or downloads page or the LCM website.
If this is something you would be interested in, please speak to a committee member about when our next exam session will be and how you can enrol.

GSOTM

FAQ

Frequently asked questions