Mandolin / Bouzouki

Confirmed tutor - Macdara Ó Faoláin.

Macdara Ó Faoláin is a bouzouki player, fiddle player & singer from An Rinn, Co. Waterford, renowned for his innovative approach to traditional Irish music. He is currently focused on composing solo bouzouki pieces that seamlessly blend his deep knowledge of harmony with his traditional roots, drawing inspiration from a wide array of genres. As a native Irish speaker, he is also writing new songs in Irish, contributing to both the preservation and evolution of the language through his music.

Macdara performs regularly with collaborators such as Victoria Adiiye and Cormac McCarthy, and frequently accompanies various musicians within the traditional music scene, having developed a distinctive approach to the Irish bouzouki. He is also a member of a trio with Páraic Mac Donnchadha and Pádraic Keane. Their debut album, Beo, a compilation of live recordings from performances across the country, was hailedby the Irish Echo as "one of the best albums of the past few years."

After years of building an impressive discography as an accompanist, Macdara released a solo EP titled Do Shamhlaigh Mé Tír Nua… in 2024, serving as a prelude to his debut album Ar Thaobh Chill an Fhuarthainn which was launched in early January 2025 with a sold-out release show.

Both releases were produced by composer and pianist Cormac McCarthy and showcase Macdara both as a solo musician and as a collaborator with McCarthy, Victoria Adiiye, Conor O’Sullivan, Áine Whelan and more.

Do Shamhlaigh Mé Tír Nua…was recently nominated for album of the year by Nós.ie as well as Macdara being nominated for Best Folk Instrumentalist by the RTÉ Folk Awards. Named the Young Musician of the Year by TG4 in 2024, Macdara is solidifying his place as a significant figure in the world of traditional Irish music.

This class is suitable for individuals with a minimum 2 years instrument experience.

All classes are designed for intermediate to advanced (minimum 2 years instrument experience) adults and children over 6 years of age except beginner instrument classes, whistle and sing, set dancing, sean nós dancing, traditional singing & sean nós singing which are suitable for all levels including beginners.

Masterclass bookings include free access to afternoon events, including talks, workshops, afternoon céilís, film screenings and slow sessions - Excluding 1-1 instrument clinics & events priced over £5.