TUNE LEARNING SESSION
Entering in to a new musical tradition can be an intimidating experience, but not with our Sunday Tune Learning Session! If you are interested in learning to play Irish instrumental music, but you’re not sure where to start, this is the place to be. Each participant is given a chance to start the tune of their choice from our carefully selected list of tunes. As the rest of the group joins in, the energy of the session will support you on your way! A donation of $5.00 is suggested for the session. All proceeds go to Comhaltas San Diego.
The Tune Learning Session is hosted by Judy Carlstrom, and takes place every Sunday from 9:30-10:30am at the House of Ireland in Balboa Park, and is followed by the House of Ireland All Levels Session at 10:30. For more information and the tune list, click here.
WHISTLE CLUB
The tin whistle, or penny whistle, has long been a mainstay of Irish souvenir shops and childhood music instruction, but is also a full-on session instrument. The Whistle Club is for anyone interested in playing the Irish whistle and meeting other whistle players at any level. Learn your way around the whistle, or share a tune you have been working on in a supportive, low pressure environment. Hosted by Comhaltas San Diego Chair Quin Herron. A donation of $5.00 is suggested for the club. All proceeds go to Comhaltas San Diego.
The Whistle Club takes place every Saturday from 10:00-11:00am at the House of Ireland in Balboa Park.
DRUM AND STRUM
Ever wanted to play the bodhrán or strum along to your favorite Irish tunes? The Drum and Strum is a chance for those interested in getting started backing Irish music. The first hour is “drum” focused, and will introduce you to the various rhythms of Irish music. No bodhrán? No problem! We have several for you to try. The second hour is “strum” focused, where you can learn chords and strum patterns to liven up any Irish session. Both are excellent opportunities to learn about the unique role backing instruments play in an Irish session. Come for one or stay for both! Hosted by Daniel Ide, with rotating guest melody players. Suggested donation is $10.00. All proceeds go to Comhaltas San Diego.
The Drum and Strum takes place the second Thursday of every month, at the House of Ireland in Balboa Park, from 6:00-8:00 PM.
BEGINNING EAR TRAINING SESSION
As an “aural” tradition, learning music by ear is fundamental to becoming a proficient traditional Irish musician. However, many players who were trained in other traditions find this to be a daunting proposition. Enter the Beginning Ear Training Session (BETS). Host Lindy Edwards will give you strategies for how to listen and what to listen for in traditional Irish music, no prior music theory knowledge required!
This free workshop typically takes place on the second Saturday of each month. For more information and to reserve your seat, contact info@sandiegocomhaltas.org.
O’CAROLAN SESSION
Turlough O’Carolan was a blind Irish harper who lived from 1670-1738 and who composed many beautiful pieces in the baroque style. This session is an opportunity to play his music, and is especially suited for those who enjoy playing classical style music from sheet music, with a distinctively Irish sound. The session is hosted by Rebecca Lee, who will play these melodies on her lovely harp.
The O’Carolan Session takes place the third Thursday of each month, at the home of Rebecca Lee in the College Area of San Diego. For more information (including a sheet music .pdf) and to reserve your seat, please email info@sandiegocomhaltas.org.
PHRASE BY PHRASE CLASS
The phrase by phrase class takes place the hour before our monthly Comhaltas Seisiún at Hooleys Grossmont. This is a great way to learn a new tune by ear. Hosted by Michael Eskin, host of San Diego’s longest running Irish session.
The Phrase by Phrase class takes place at 6:00pm on the last Thursday of each month, immediately followed by the Comhaltas Seisiún.
COMHALTAS SEISIÚN
The Comhaltas Seisiún is an opportunity for members of the Irish music community to come together and play tunes in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The first hour is made up of tunes from our Sunday Tune Learning Session (see above). The second hour is an open session. Come enjoy delicious Irish food and music! It’s a great way to finish out the month.
The Comhaltas Seisiún, also known as the Hooleys Session, takes place on the last Thursday of each month at Hooleys La Mesa, 5500 Grossmont Ctr. Dr., from 7:00-9:00pm.
