For a number of years now I have been a regular on the staff at Zoukfest in New Mexico.

The workshops I run are largely based on playing the Irish bouzouki to accompany tunes and songs. More recently though I have begun to compile transcriptions of the first recording that Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny made for the seminal band Planxty.

The workshops I currently offer are:

The Mandolin in Celtic Music

Mandolin in Celtic music focuses on the ways in which the mandolin can be used to produce authentic traditional celtic music. I concentrate on techniques to maximise the qualities of the mandolin as an instrument for this music and cover music from the Irish, Scottish and Asturian traditions.

The Sound of Sixteen Strings Pt. A and Pt. B

This workshop gives a complete and in depth look at the first Planxty album. Transcriptions are provided and analysis given into the intricacies and development of ideas in the arrangement ideas. Pt. A and B refer to sides of the old vinyl.

Session Bouzouki (Arranging on the Fly…)

“Arranging on the Fly” essentially provides guides on how to hear session music and respond in creative and respectful ways with accompaniment. There is no need for musical theory to take this class but I do cover topics such as harmony, chord substitution and counterpoint.

I am also available for private tuition or general consultation.