This workshop is an introduction to Celtic myths, legends, traditions, folklore and songs.

The workshop will be both reflective and experiential.

Starting with a factual history of the Celts we will mainly focus on the Celts in Ireland and Scotland and their mythological history, dipping into some of their better known stories which are rife with shape shifting and other forms of magic.

We will look at their spiritual beliefs and how these affected both their customs and mythology, leaving a strong residue which is still present today.

Mary will lead participants through some of these stories, songs, ancient folklore and poems using a variety of texts as well as oral tradition.

Music and songs will follow the thread of the texts. Songs will be in both English and Irish, this latter being made accessible by a phonetic approach. Participants do not need to have any prior knowledge as this is meant to be an introduction to the world of the ancient celts.

Likewise they do not need to be “singers” but should be willing to have a go at some of the songs as singing is so much a part of the tradition.

A tape recorder may be useful for the songs, but there will be handouts of lyrics and an overview of Celtic history. There will be also a book list which covers books referred to or used in the workshop.

“Partaking of both Mary's Sean Nos Singing class and her class on Celtic Magic has allowed me to begin in earnest my long overlooked exploration into my Irish heritage. Thanks Mary for sharing all you have with me so freely, so lovingly and so astutely. A fine teacher, you are, VERY fine indeed! I'm still lifting the fire of inspiration (as you taught me) to sing the ancient songs not only for my own students and audiences but also -and mostly...simply for myself. Thanks to Mary McLaughlin I have a strong root to the past to hold on to, one that is worth more than all the fairy gold in the world.”
—Frannie, Bard/Teacher/Mother. Pisgah Forest, NC

“I enrolled in Mary's Celtic Magic and Sean Nos classes at Swannanoa. Her heart is as expansive as her mind is as expansive as her voice...I can't say enough good of her. I was awakened and inspired and educated.”
—Retha Ferrell, musician, artist, seeker. Rogersville, TN

“The songs, history and insight provided by Mary about Celtic traditions, myths and stories helped fill-in the gaps in my knowledge. It has helped me play and live life with much more gusto and purpose. Her use of the fire and group concentation was especially uplifting and welcome. I would highly recommend this course to all interested in gaining insights and lore about the Celtic ways!! I would love to take it again next Swannanoa Celtic week.”
—Alan, Celtic Fiddler/Computer Programming Instructor. Atlanta, GA,

“This course was like no other I have ever had - and that says a lot for someone who has experienced Celtic Week for 10 years! I never knew being curious about fairies and Irish myth would uncover such a host of feelings. I left feeling enlightened, incredulous, amazed, weepy from listening and singing absolutely gorgeous music, humbled, awed, mesmerized and more.
Mary seemed to full us up through a variety of mediums: music and song, poetry, stories, history, meditation.
The stories were captivating, the folklore fascinating, the singing enchanting and Mary was the catalyst that was able to bring it all together so amazingly. Once in awhile one has the great fortune to find an incredible teacher and leave feeling inspired, a little different and motivated to learn more. Mary IS that kind of teacher, a rare and beautiful treasure!”
—Beth Magill, Professional musician and music teacher. Asheville, NC