Saturday, 15 November 2025
📍 Stranmillis University College – Music Department, Belfast
🕙 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Learn how to play for set and céilà dancers with guidance from James McCaffrey and Michael Curran, both members of the renowned Blackwater Céilà Band.
This practical multi-instrumental workshop is open to melody players (fiddle, flute, whistle, etc.) at intermediate level and above.
Learn how to choose and play tunes suitable for dancers, focusing on the style, lift, and repertoire that bring each dance to life.
Develop your rhythm, ensemble skills, and phrasing while exploring the tunes and techniques that make dancers move.
About the Tutors
James McCaffrey – Flute & Whistle
From Dromore, Co. Tyrone, James is a highly regarded traditional musician known for his expressive flute and whistle playing.
Senior All-Ireland Whistle Champion (2015) and founding member of the Blackwater CĂ©ilĂ Band, winners of the Senior All-Ireland CĂ©ilĂ Band Title (2018).
He teaches and performs widely, including with The Porter Bellys and Core CĂ©ilĂ, a new trio featuring Michael Curran and Jason McGuinness.
Michael Curran – Button Accordion
A former All-Ireland Senior Button Accordion Champion from Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone, Michael is celebrated for his strong Ulster style and dynamic teaching.
An original member of the Blackwater CĂ©ilĂ Band, he performs and teaches across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and the USA.