Banjo, Bodhran and Guitar

Banjo, Guitar, and Bodhrán Classes
Classes take place on Monday evenings for banjo and guitar, and Wednesday evenings for bodhrán, in the Music Department at Stranmillis University College.

We have a limited supply of banjos, mandolins, guitars, and bodhráns available for hire for up to three successive terms. Please email info@belfasttrad.com to express interest.

Tenor Banjo & Mandolin – Aiden Walsh
BelfastTrad offers combined banjo and mandolin classes (not suitable for 5-string banjo).

  • Beginners – 6:00–7:00pm
    Suitable for new students. Focus on technique and foundational skills. Students will progress to higher levels when ready. Please share any prior experience.

  • Intermediate – 7:00–8:00pm
    For returning students who have completed one or two terms. Emphasis on developing repertoire.

  • Advanced – 8:00–9:00pm
    A high-level class for experienced players ready for greater challenge and complex repertoire.


Guitar – Deirdre Galway

These classes focus on backing traditional music, primarily in DADGAD tuning. Alternative styles may be accommodated—please contact us before enrolling.

  • Beginners – 6:00–7:00pm
    Suitable for new students. Experience level will be assessed to group students appropriately.

  • Intermediate – 7:00–8:00pm
    For returning students who have completed one or two terms. Focus on a range of accompaniment techniques, tailored to student interests.

  • Advanced – 8:00–9:00pm
    For experienced players ready for a greater challenge or those with significant experience in other styles wishing to focus on traditional backing.

Bodhrán – Tomaí Taylor

  • Beginners – 6:00–7:00pm
    Suitable for complete beginners. Learn simple rhythms and basic patterns.

  • Intermediate – 7:00–8:00pm
    Progress after one or two terms at beginners or if confident with basic patterns. Explore patterns such as jigs and reels.

  • Advanced – 8:00–9:00pm
    For experienced players ready to take their skills to the next level. Explore a wide variety of tunes and more complex rhythms.

 
 

Aiden Walsh

Aiden Walsh, originally from Tubercurry in Co. Sligo, is by now a long-time resident of Belfast. He is well known for his distinct, driving style and is much sought after as a teacher and performer. 

Tomaí Taylor

Tomaí is a bodhrán player and maker from Belfast. He started playing the bodhrán at age 17 and within a year had appeared at a Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann final. Since then he has performed and taught in local and international settings.

 

DEIRDRE GALWAY

Deirdre is highly skilled and experienced guitarist in the Irish tradition and an expert in the DADGAD tuning system. She is a founding member of the Irish traditional bands Réalta and Music in the Glen who have released four critically acclaimed studio albums and have performed throughout the world including at Celtic Connections (Glasgow), Sori (South Korea), Saarang (India) and Milwaukee Irish Fest (USA). Closer to home Deirdre performs for The Belfast Traditional Music Trail and for Live Music Now, a charity which brings music into various community settings.