Irish Sean Nós, or “old style” singing has been enjoying a revival in recent years. These songs have been handed down in oral tradition for many years and speak of ordinary people in sometimes extraordinary situations. Personal stories, political allegory, hopes and fears of countless generations have been preserved in these beautiful songs, which touch us every bit as much today as when they were composed.

On this workshop participants will listen to recordings of the exponents of the art of Sean Nós and examine the style. The emphasis will be on the Donegal style of Sean Nós which is less ornamented than other styles.

We will learn songs in Irish, the words being made available through a phonetic system which Mary has devised. As this is an oral tradition, the songs will be taught orally.

Although copies of the words will be given out there will be no sheet music as written music inhibits the style. Participants should, therefore, bring a tape recorder so that they capture melodies, nuances of pronunciation and ornamentation.

Each class will start with vocal technique, as the style requires good technical ability, especially in the area of breath control.

No previous experience of Gaelic singing required.

Mary is awaiting publication of her book “Singing in Irish Gaelic” (based on this method) on Mel Bay Publications, scheduled for 2002.

“Mary is an excellent, experienced teacher who knows her subject intimately.  Her terrific organizational skills made it easy for me to learn. She also provided us with a treasure house of resource materials, and was very generous with her personal time outside of class. Her singing shows great depth of emotion and skill, whether performing in a traditional style or adapting it to her own contemporary arrangements. I was very moved by Mary's deep commitment to her artistry and the passion she brings to every performance and class. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her classes and workshops to anyone who is looking for an authentic experience in both traditional Irish singing and/or blended contemporary Celtic music.”
—Beverly Cruise Hueter, singer and homemaker. Marietta, GA.

“I loved your Sean Nos class & felt you were my best teacher that week, bar none. Your many years of teaching experience has served you well in this "next phase" of your life. I loved your class, the material, the excellence that you gave and expected, and was pleasantly surprised that at least one of the Sean Nos songs I learned in your class was on my favorite CD of yours I bought.”
—Michelle Truex, Indpls., IN

“The vocal techniques you taught were great warmups. I particularly loved that although you are deeply rooted in straight traditional irish song, you also have an appreciation for some of the people who have come out of it into a slightly different slant such as Steeleye Span and Fairport Convention . As a visual artist and contra dancer currently from Lake Helen, Florida -formerly of New York City—as well a ballad singer, the material you taught in your classes was very much what I was looking for and many are songs I've added to my list of favorites.”
—Rachel, FL