2-year traditional music performance course for musicians and singers with instrumental-making option. Students compose, record and produce their own CD
Stream 2: HND Traineeship in Traditional Irish Music
Stream 1 Irish Traditional Music Performance
This programme is suitable for all traditional musicians and singers who wish to develop their practical skills and musicianship. The course places an emphasis on performance, developing musical skills, musical instrument making and music technology, deepening your understanding of Irish traditional music. In second year, you have the opportunity to record, engineer and produce their own CD, using college facilities.
Stream 2 Traineeship in Instrument Making, Repair and Maintenance
The programme, in partnership with Na Piobairí Uilleann, also offers a traineeship in musical instrument making for students who wish to develop their skills in this area. In September 2020 the harp and mandolin/mandola was added to the uilleann pipes, whistle and flute on the instrument making strand. As well as workshop time with an expert instrument maker, students have access to the instrument making workshop on a regular basis to further develop their skills. Those students completing the traineeship will be facilitated in completing 14 weeks relevant work placement.
What will you study?
Year 1
Music Industry
Professional Development
The Evolution of the Instrument
Applied Music Theory Performance
Instrumental Technique
Marketing and Promotion for Musicians Recording Technology (Performance Strand) OR
Mechanical Workshop Practices (Instrument Making Strand)
End of Year 1 Certification Higher National Certificate in Music (General)
Year 2
Creative Research Project
Creative Portfolio
Developing as an Artist
Advanced Performance Skills
Live Arrangement Skills
Regional Styles in Irish Traditional Music
Advanced Music Production (Performance Strand) OR
Work-based Learning (Instrument Making strand)
End of Year 2 Certification Higher National Diploma in Music (Artist Development)
Course Features
Expert tuition in all aspects of Irish Traditional Music and music performance
Workshops and guest lectures from leading exponents of the tradition.
Performance opportunities
Musical Instrument Making
Access to on campus recording studios
Strong links to the music industry
CD Production
What do you need to apply?
Year 1 Higher National Certificate
Leaving Certificate/LCVP with a minimum of two O1/H5 and three O6/ H7 grades, or a relevant QQI Level 5 award with a Merit profile. Suitable BCFE QQI Level 5 awards include:
The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+), or where outstanding talent is demonstrated at the audition.
Year 2 Higher National Diploma
Students who have successfully completed year 1 and have achieved a Higher National Certificate in Music (General), can progress automatically to year 2.
Applicants with an equivalent Higher National Certificate and subject to module compatibility may also apply directly to Year 2, Higher National Diploma in Music (Artist Development).
Progression Opportunities
Graduates who achieve a Merit/Distinction may apply for entry to the BA (Hons) in Media Production Management programme in BCFE.
Graduates of this course may also apply through the CAO and/ or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to higher and advanced certificate and degree programmes at national Institutes of Technology, Technological Universities and Universities, where graduates may gain exemption of one or two years from music degree courses in Ireland, (applicants should confirm linked awards and eligibility requirements with the relevant Higher Education Institution).
Graduates may also gain exemption of one or two years from other Music degree courses in the UK.
Career Opportunities
The course offers significant career opportunities for graduates. Our graduates are working successfully in areas such as performance, music production, music management, arts administration, festival programming, teaching, field recording and sound engineering. Our instrument makers have the opportunity to supply instruments to the industry either through direct sales or through organisations such as Na Píobairí Uilleann.
During my two years of study here, I found myself emerged in all things music and I really loved every minute of it. I came out at the end a more confident and knowledgeable musician. I started playing the bouzouki during my time on this course and it was a solid foundation I needed for the music career that lay ahead of me. For that I thank all the lecturers at BCFE on the Ceoltóir course for their continued support. Daoirí Farrell: Multi award winning singer and performer Higher National Diploma in Music – Irish Traditional Music Performance, (PTH, 2007-2009)
On successful completion of Year 1 of a two-year Higher National Diploma (HND) a Higher National Certificate (HNC) will be claimed for each 1st Year HND student. It will be included as part of the overall HND award on successful completion of Year 2.
During my two years of study here, I found myself emerged in all things music and I really loved every minute of it. I came out at the end a more confident and knowledgeable musician. I started playing the bouzouki during my time on this course and it was a solid foundation I needed for the music career that lay ahead of me. For that I thank all the lecturers at BCFE on the Ceoltóir course for their continued support.