I take all students from beginner to experienced musicians (who often need coaching in deportment and/or bowing technique) and encourage proper traditional Irish style. I teach aurally and written music using enough music theory to pass Irish state examinations in either TTCT (traditional) all levels, or up to RICM (classical) to level 4. While keeping lessons lighthearted and fun the idea is to quickly build up a repertoire of tunes that allow the learner to 'sit-in' on sessions as quickly as possible while also learning how to learn so one can pick up tunes easily. I myself have 7 All Ireland medals stretching from 1971 to 2001.

As many people wish to learn English to enhance their travel experiences I've designed this course around the language one may expect to encounter and use as one meets and greets people in various situations, from the airport to greeting the Tour Director, the hotel or attractions one visits. As an experienced tour guide and teacher I have designed the classes to start with some ordinary situations where we will role-play and then start working up to more complicated and adventurist situations that are challenging but within the scope of the student. As a First Responder I have witnessed many situations where travellers needed to be comforted or even hospitalised. Practical advice, and knowledge of some specialised terms will be useful. I tend to be light on homework but insist that it is completed, otherwise the class is held up. Regular feedback will help the learner feel how they are getting along and I believe strongly on encouragement and l will act positively when mistakes are made - the classroom IS the place to be allowed to make mistakes.

English has become the lingua franca of much of the world and has become hugely important in the IT world. I have dealt with mostly teenagers and young adults over the years preparing for exams or in summer schools but I now prefer to concentrate on business, and conversational English. Having recently completed the CELTA training (entirely on line with real students from Japan to Brazil) I like to follow a structured approach to lessons and have become very adept at using Zoom to teach with, though I am rather looking forward to get back into the classroom and teach in person.