Teaching Faculty
Waltons New School of Music
‘Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.’
– Japanese Proverb
‘It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.’
– Albert Einstein
I’m absolutely delighted that I signed up for the [Introducing Irish Fiddle] course, which is at the perfect level for a group of adult beginners. We have a fantastic teacher with an approachable and accessible teaching style, who communicates so well with our group. There is a lovely rapport in the class. Overall, the New School has a great atmosphere and is a great environment for learning music. The staff and teachers are so professional and accommodating. I would definitely recommend it to a friend!
Excellent teacher. Excellent revision. [Leaving Cert. Music Pre-Exam Revision Workshop]
Sinéad Flynn is a wonderful singer and vocal teacher who teaches with much heart and passion, always pushing me to improve and to find more layers in the songs. The Friday casual concerts are very enjoyable, and everyone is so supportive of each other. When you enter Waltons, there is a lovely welcoming vibe, and the office staff are all extremely friendly and helpful. (voice student)
Great teachers, great place for an adult to learn to sing. As a result of time in the New School I was able to join first the Rathmines Folk Group, then the Sandymount Gospel Choir and then the Donnybrook Church Choir. I have also taken three exams with the Royal Irish Academy of Music, with Honours in my last exam. I am at present preparing for a Grade 6 exam. None of this would have happened were it not for Waltons New School of Music. [voice student]
Paddy made every [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class an interesting one. He is a superb teacher.
Sinéad is an excellent teacher. She has improved my singing beyond recognition and has done so with passion, ensuring that I could expand my range and learn the techniques of good singing. Sinéad ensures that my Intensive Lessons are enjoyable and fun, but she also makes sure you do your homework! It has been an extremely positive experience for me.
Learning the fiddle was a really positive and worthwhile experience. The tuition was pitched perfectly for beginners, and the teacher is exceptional. Thank you. [Introducing Irish Fiddle]
A very positive experience and great teaching. [Introducing World Drumming]
Great school with really great teachers, who have a lovely way with children. We would definitely recommend! [mother of Introducing Violin for Children student]
I decided to take the [Ableton Live Basics] course because I had Ableton Live Lite software that came bundled with some gear I’d bought, and I had no idea how to use it. The course far exceeded my expectations. I’d imagined a course that would give me a couple of tips for using Ableton Live more effectively, but our teacher provided us with so much more. I now realise why Ableton Live is such a popular software – and I now have a very good idea of what it can do!
The teacher explained everything clearly and efficiently [and] made the complicated works easier to grasp. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Sinéad created a great, welcoming and supportive musical environment. The songs we worked on varied between comfortable and challenging for me to sing, and that was a great part of the experience. [voice student]
The [Introducing Guitar for Adults] tutor is excellent, patient and easy to understand. He makes the class very enjoyable. I also really like the friendly atmosphere in the school. All of the staff are very helpful and professional.
Experience with my [drum kit] teacher has been fantastic. He’s a great teacher with lots of patience – encouraging and really passionate.
The [Introducing Singing for Adults] course is a truly uplifting and fantastic experience. We have an amazing teacher who has great patience and brings humour to our classes, so that we’re always relaxed.
John is a great guitar teacher. He helped me understand the instrument / fret board a lot more and helped me to correct bad habits.
A great [guitar] teacher – patient, organised, knows when to step back and when to push, very adaptable and knowledgeable.
I have really enjoyed [Introducing Violin for Adults] at the school, especially the outstanding teaching skills, kindness and patience of the instructor. I have to say that choosing this course was a very good decision.
The lesson was very good and the teacher was great, encouraging and relaxed. [Irish Music Tasters]
Sinhué is a wonderful teacher. He is so enthusiastic, and I have learned so much about the flute as well as how to play it. I have found the lessons very enjoyable.
John is a fantastic teacher. I have no musical talent, and I somehow came out of this 10-week course [Introducing Bodhrán] being able to play a few reels and jigs, and having really enjoyed the course.
I could do this course [Musical Theatre Workshop] all year long. Sinéad pushes and pulls you to do your best. The feeling of achievement is ‘grandiose’!
A very enjoyable course [Introducing Singing for Adults]. The teacher was very experienced and all participants improved hugely, even shrinking violets!
I like the structured approach and empathetic teacher with the ability to identify and help areas of weakness. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
The [Trad Guitar Basics] course tutor is excellent and also very flexible. He knows how to bring someone up to speed if they fall behind in class. Very enjoyable as well as instructive.
Every week at my [guitar] lessons is a new and positive experience. I appreciate my teacher’s expertise greatly and feel lucky for the opportunity to continue learning from him. Waltons New School of Music is very professional and has a friendly, welcoming environment.
Very relaxed, friendly approach. Paddy encourages everyone to ask questions and is great at demonstrating. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
The [Introducing Violin for Adults] course gave me a great introduction to a difficult instrument in a friendly, fun environment. It was challenging but thoroughly enjoyable, which I think should be credited to the patience and helpfulness of the teacher.
I would highly recommend the Making Music course for 3–4-year-olds. It’s a truly brilliant course, wonderfully active and engaging, and it really benefitted my son’s listening skills and enthusiasm for singing and dancing. It’s lovely that there is no need for any knowledge of music or instruments for it and that the teacher combines her knowledge of music and teaching superbly well.
From my point of view the teaching at the school is top class.
Luke is a great [piano] teacher who nurtured and expanded [my daughter’s] musical abilities. We were very pleased with the tuition she received at Waltons New School of Music. The school administration also takes a real interest in matching your child to the most suitable teacher for what it is that you and your child are hoping to achieve from the lessons.
This has been a most enjoyable and fulfilling learning experience. My [guitar] teacher is a classy, professional but very much down-to-earth guy. He puts you at ease and is hugely encouraging and supportive. On my first visit I was a little tentative on arrival. His style is to engage and listen, and I immediately felt comfortable and assured. Since then I’ve genuinely enjoyed every minute of these sessions. Don’t think I can say that about too many experiences of anything I’ve been involved with over the years!
I’ve been attending voice lessons with Sinéad Flynn for the last five years, and I have felt my confidence grow and my technique improve thanks to the effort both myself and Sinéad put in every week! It has been great to work towards the Scholarship Competition, as well as towards grade exams, in a relaxed and supportive environment, and I’ve really enjoyed the experience.
The teacher was very easy to understand and was willing to answer any questions. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
My violin teacher completely accommodated my ambition to progress quickly in learning the instrument, starting from absolutely no experience.
The [Introducing Irish Fiddle] teacher was excellent, very encouraging and with endless patience.
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the singing/voice classes [Summer Singing for Adults] I have taken with Fiadh Rua Gregg: the mix of exercises, technical knowledge and skills, learning new songs, and the experience of singing with other people. I also enjoyed listening to and learning from other people in the group. I have learned so much about my voice, and I really value this learning – considering how much I use my voice in my work.
The whole experience has been deeply enriching. I appreciated how Fiadh pitched and paced each class with a blend of tasks that provided a challenge while also offering a sense of achievement. While I attended all classes online, I felt very much part of a group, and this was due to Fiadh’s skill as a teacher, as she created such an encouraging, facilitative and supportive atmosphere. I had wanted to take singing/voice classes for years, and I’m so glad I did!
I have a very friendly and understanding voice teacher. I learned a lot from the lessons, and she has a wealth of knowledge. She approached the lessons with ease, and I felt comfortable singing with her. I looked forward to my lessons every week and I would highly recommend her to other students who wish to pursue voice/singing lessons. I also like that there are both online and in-person tuition options. I found it difficult to find online singing lessons, and it was very beneficial for me as I do not live in the greater Dublin area and I am on the move a lot. Waltons New School of Music offers a great range of subjects and a large variety of instruments to learn. The enrolment process was straightforward, and their communication regarding enrolment and finalising lessons was very quick and efficient.
I have an excellent acoustic guitar teacher, and I could notice real improvement as we progressed through these online sessions. I would recommend the school for its competitive prices, good schedule availability and great teachers.
A fantastic course and a gifted, caring teacher. My daughter really enjoyed learning piano with other children, and the teacher was so encouraging that no child felt left behind. This course and approach is worlds away from the way I learned piano, and I’m so happy that my daughter wants to continue! [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Children]
I thoroughly enjoyed my Intensive Lesson with Dav. I honestly thought I was incapable of singing, and she changed my mind on that!
A solid introduction to jazz and improvised music-making. The teacher is not only a great jazz musician but a supportive and inspiring educator. [Jazz Piano Basics]
Great atmosphere, and the [Introducing World Drumming] classes were taught clearly and with enthusiasm. Brian is a great teacher, very patient and professional.
Cathy is a fantastic and supportive instructor. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it! [Sing Your Heart Out Choir]
Very good [voice] teacher, with excellent knowledge of good technique. Keep up the good work!
If you are looking to learn a new instrument, or how to sing, I couldn’t recommend Waltons New School of Music enough. It’s centrally located so is easy to get to, and the teachers are experts in their fields. The classes are taught in a relaxed environment, and they will no doubt leave you confident and competent in your chosen discipline. [Introducing Singing for Adults student]
The Introducing Bodhrán course is a really good intro into trad music, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who’s thinking about it. John is an amazing teacher, great at explaining things!
I am a resident of the U.S. and was delighted to have found online guitar lessons with Waltons New School of Music. For an absolute beginner like myself, I had the ideal teacher, so patient and encouraging, allowing me to build confidence with every lesson. I could not have been happier with the experience. I am just so glad Waltons has made online music learning available. What a great use of technology to be able to connect with talented musicians and instructors from around the world!
Excellent school, excellent teachers, I would highly recommend. We had Dave Mooney for bass this year and he was great. Patient, kind and a great teacher.
Great way to get started with the guitar! [I have] a very thorough and patient instructor, with good choice of content for the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] classes. I have found that my playing has improved greatly.
My son takes drum kit lessons at the New School, and his teacher uses a variety of teaching techniques to make the lessons both interesting and enjoyable. The school has a great location and facilities for teaching.
I really enjoyed my [violin] lessons. I had a teacher who really understood how adults learn, and she gave me great confidence.
Relaxed and friendly atmosphere, helpful staff, great teachers.
Sinéad Flynn is a fantastic [voice] teacher. Her vast knowledge of the musical theatre repertoire helps you choose pieces that suit your voice and helps you to make the most of your potential as a singer.
I would definitely recommend the New School to my friends because of the great experience I’ve had with my daughter’s guitar lessons and the progress she has made over such a short period of time. The teachers work very well with their students, and it’s a fun learning environment.
A pleasure to spend an hour doing something different with a genuinely passionate musician and totally nice bloke. [Irish Music Tasters]
I cannot thank you enough. My cello teacher always goes above and beyond in my lessons. And the office staff are knowledgeable, warm and friendly. It’s a lovely place to be a student.
This is a well-designed course [Introducing Harmonica] where progress is nearly guaranteed (as long as you practice enough). Michael McInerney knows what he is talking about, and he definitely has the skills to bring you to the next level.
I’ve been enjoying my piano lessons very much and have learned so much over the past few months since I started to learn the piano. Luke is a brilliant teacher, is very good at explaining new concepts so that I can understand them as a beginner, is super patient and encouraging and makes the lessons fun and challenging.
l am really enjoying my flute lessons with Waltons New School of Music. As a student who has never take any music lessons before, l have learned a lot here and really enjoyed it. My teacher is professional, very patient and always encourages me. He even encouraged me to participate in the school’s Most Promising Beginner scholarship competition, even though I had been learning the flute for only 2 ½ months – and I won Third Prize! I see myself making a lot of progress here. The school administrators are very nice too. I highly recommend this school.
This course [Musical Theatre Workshop] is excellent for developing both acting and singing skills in fun, relaxed and creative atmosphere. Sinéad is dedicated, enthusiastic and open to letting the class develop their performance. I hope to take the course again next year, as it has given me the confidence to perform and audition for my local musical society.
I loved the class [Musical Theatre Workshop]. The teacher is brilliant, and I feel much more confident about my singing and acting. Also the class is great fun.
Gabriele is such a friendly and helpful [violin] teacher. [My daughter] felt really comfortable with him as he made the lessons so enjoyable.
I had no expectations going to my first [Introducing 5-String Banjo] class, but when it was over, I knew I was in the right place and was going to love it! Paddy is such an affable man, blessed with great patience, who made learning such a pleasure. The class was just so engrossing that the hour seemed to fly by. Prior to my tuition, I was a complete novice musically. And although I’m still very much in the embryonic stage of my musical journey, after my tuition with Paddy I feel that I’ve come such a long way already. I simply can’t stress enough how much enjoyment and knowledge I derive from my class every week.
I also love the ‘old school’ charm that the New School of Music offers – those brief interactions of curiosity and encouragement with students of other instruments, as we await our respective classes.
Éamonn is a great [tin whistle] teacher. He cherishes what I already am capable of and knows exactly what to teach me to make me progress every week.
The online summer courses are a great opportunity, and the teaching is of a high standard. [jazz violin student]
The teacher’s easy manner gave me the courage to have a go even if I wasn’t getting things right. By my own reckoning I have made huge progress since I began the [Sight Singing Made Easy] course.
Very well taught! Notes are easy to understand, and it definitely boosts your confidence towards the exam. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Thanks to all in the New School for arranging such professional tuition with such experienced staff.
Sinéad really is a fabulous voice teacher, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the lessons I’ve had both in a group and a 1-2-1 environment.
All the fundamentals were covered, which gave us the best foundations for learning how to play the violin correctly. Terrific teacher, and the atmosphere of the [Introducing Violin for Adults] classes was always great and positive. I had fun at every class. Thank you.
I have been taken singing [Intensive Lessons] for the past three years. Early on, I decided not to stick to one teacher so I could benefit from different approaches, and the standard of teaching from all the teachers I’ve had has been uniformly excellent.
I’ve wanted to learn piano for many years, and I’m glad I was finally bold enough to try. My teacher was not only patient but provided an atmosphere that wasn’t at all daunting or intimidating. I loved it! [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
My piano teacher is super nice and patient, so kind and always encouraging – I truly like her. Very nice staff as well. It felt like home. Thanks everybody – you are all lovely!
The teacher is great at providing a fun environment for learning. [Musical Adventures (Ages 4-5)]
I enjoyed the [Introducing Singing for Adults] course immensely and learned a lot. The teacher was excellent and I liked the whole welcoming set up in Waltons New School of Music.
Dav, my teacher, has been so helpful in helping me to understand my voice. Learning to sing well is a process, but I see good results already. A very big thank you that the school is here and that you’ve given me an opportunity to learn with a professional and to satisfy my desire to sing.
I’ve really enjoyed my piano lessons with Dan. He is very creative, with an ‘out of the box’ approach, and with his patience made me feel comfortable from the very beginning. I am starting to feel a lot more confident and have a better musical mindset. [online student]
Dav is a very talented [voice] teacher who is especially skilled in dealing with adult students.
Sinéad Flynn is the best teacher I have ever had, for any discipline. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone interested in exploring their voice as an instrument. Sinéad is an exceptional teacher, very knowledgeable and encouraging, with a wonderful disposition. Also, the school staff are great, and the location is excellent.
The wonderful teacher, very supportive and patient, made for a very enjoyable experience. There was a lovely sense of camaraderie in the group learning and playing together. [Flute Ensemble]
Harry is an excellent teacher who plans a really great term of music – challenging, enjoyable, interesting. He always has a great story and background history of the pieces and is always encouraging and upbeat. He teaches the whistle, but he also fosters a love of Irish music. Really enjoy the Monday classes. [Introducing Tin Whistle student]
My [drum kit] teacher made it very easy to learn the drums, as he broke each skill down into its elements. Also, the drum kit here is fantastic.
Brilliant teacher. Really enjoyed the [Introducing Guitar for Adults] course!
Participating in the Jazz Ensemble has been an absolute joy. Dave is such an encouraging and supportive teacher, and I feel that I’ve really come to grips with how jazz ‘works’.
The teacher does a brilliant job with the [Musical Explorations (Ages 5-6)] course. Each child is listened to and well looked after, whether the classes are in the school or online. My son loves the course and has learned lots of new things. He looks forward to every Saturday.
My daughter attended Waltons for the introductory guitar course [Introducing Guitar for Children] and has continued with an improvers course for almost two years. She really enjoys it. Her teacher is great – very calm, encouraging and patient, and he doesn’t talk down to them. Every week I see progress and her personal pride in playing a little more accurately and fluidly each time. The atmosphere in the building from all staff is one of professionalism, kindness and welcome.
Marta is an amazing [voice] teacher. I studied singing [in Dublin] and Paris when I was younger, and the standard of teaching from Marta is much higher than anything I received in the past. More, she brings the techniques that she learnt about in master classes from world-renowned singers such as Barbara Bonney. Marta is encouraging and positive, vocally and emotionally; I feel uplifted when I finish my lesson. It is such a blessing to have her as my teacher. I strongly recommend her.
I am very happy with my voice lessons at Waltons. I have an amazing teacher, very encouraging and patient, who makes the work fun. I will be continuing my lessons here for as long as I can afford it!
My [piano] teacher very quickly discovers a student’s best way of learning and uses that to the student’s advantage. She is also very approachable.
I love my voice teacher. She’s really friendly and thoughtful, and I enjoy studying with her so much!
Every topic covered, with plenty of tips for higher marks. Very helpful, with an exam oriented and enthusiastic teacher. [Leaving Cert. Music Easter Revision Course]
Great [voice] teacher. I have developed so much in the past year [and] have learned so much technique. We get through a lot in a 30-minute lesson; it’s very productive.
I find Dav’s [voice] lessons to be excellent and fun. My voice has improved greatly, and her relaxed style makes the lessons very enjoyable. Highly recommended.
Very professional and friendly school with excellent teachers. I really enjoyed studying here.
My banjo teacher is both patient and encouraging, and the lessons are very informative. I’m very happy with my online lessons and plan to continue.
John Sweeney is a terrific tutor. He listens to my sons and builds up a great rapport that keeps them interested in the guitar.
My [Introducing Singing for Adults] teacher is brilliant at explaining, giving hands-on tips and exercises to practice. She knows how to make people feel both more comfortable and braver, and she is always positive and encouraging.
The welcoming and friendly atmosphere and wonderful staff and teachers at Waltons make it such a special place to be a part of. I started my singing lessons with the fantastic Sinéad Flynn nine months ago and have loved every lesson since. Whether you’re a beginning a new instrument or an experienced musician, I could not recommend Waltons more!
My teacher, David Burns, was very friendly and helpful, and the violin lessons were engaging and a lot of fun. David did a great job figuring out what level I was during the first two lessons and then motivated me to improve even more.
Excellent teacher and class environment in which to (re)learn singing! [Introducing Singing for Adults]
I really appreciate studying [piano] at this school. The teachers are very good, and they not only teach you how to play but they also always try to find the best approach for you.
I have an excellent [classical guitar] teacher, and I admire his musicality, his talent, his wide-ranging taste and his skills. He is an excellent judge of the right pace for progression and diversification of repertoire, and he’s generous with his many practical and very helpful suggestions on technique and the best use of practice sessions. I have enjoyed my lessons with him enormously, and I feel I’ve made huge progress since I started with him. The atmosphere of my lessons is relaxed yet focused on the music. It has worked really well for me.
I’ve been taking online lessons, and my guitar teacher has inspired me to start playing again after 30 years. He’s a super teacher and sends me helpful notes straight after each lesson. I’ve been learning more and more difficult guitar pieces after my initial tentative lockdown attempt to restart lessons.
The Musical Theatre Workshop is amazing. Sinéad is very competent and dedicated. She really knows what she’s doing and I learned a lot with her.
Take that chance – it is never too late. From the day I signed up for the [Songwriting Workshop] course to the last session the teacher and staff were so helpful and friendly. Just go for it!
I’ve learned so much from my teacher that I wasn’t able to learn from singing lessons elsewhere.
I had an excellent piano teacher for my Intensive Lesson – very clear, organised, friendly and patient! Doing a lesson with him was a pleasure, and I plan to continue my piano/keyboard studies here. I highly recommend the school for its excellent teachers, very helpful administrative staff, user friendly website and convenient and accessible location!
I asked Waltons New School of Music if they could help through their Music at Work programme with a corporate meeting using bodhráns to demonstrate the power of rhythm in a business context. The process was a real pleasure, and everyone I dealt with was knowledgeable and helpful. The session itself was facilitated by Éamonn Galldubh. Ahead of time, Éamonn quickly understood what we wanted to achieve and worked collaboratively on ideas to make the session a success. On the day he quickly established both his credibility and a rapport with the audience. He was a fantastic teacher, had just the right balance of humour, understood perfectly the messages we wanted to incorporate and worked seamlessly with the team without any rehearsal.
The session was a resounding success and exceeded my expectations; our team not only got the messages but had so much fun to boot. Waltons handled all the logistics, and I would recommend them to anyone considering a similar event. A first class service. [Irish Music Tasters]
The Introducing Bodhrán course was great! John is an excellent teacher and he is really passionate about music. I enjoyed the classes and also discovered some Irish trad music while learning. Highly recommend it. Thanks!
Our [Introducing Irish Fiddle] teacher was really supportive and enthusiastic from the start, and her love for music was contagious! I really enjoyed learning from her and I will definitely continue taking lessons from Waltons.
Sinéad is a fantastic [voice] teacher. She’s super attuned and knows how to put her students at ease, creating a space for them to take risks and explore their musicality and voice. She’s also incredibly encouraging and engages with the person in front of her in a holistic, empathic, super-experienced and grounded way. And she paces the level of challenge really well. In general, I’ve had such a positive experience in the school; all the staff are lovely and extremely helpful, balancing warmth and professionalism. A beating heart of music education in Dublin’s city centre.
A truly excellent online course. The teacher is really engaging and not only makes the essentials of music reading (and writing) easy to understand but makes the whole learning process fun as well. I would highly recommend this course [Music Fundamentals] for anyone interested in learning to read music who doesn’t know where to start. You won’t regret it!
I have been attending Waltons New School of Music for the past year, and it’s safe to say that I have run out of superlatives when it comes to the place. My own personal experience has been truly amazing from day one.
Firstly, you meet the people in the office, who couldn’t be more welcoming, helpful, and patiently informant. They do what I believe is a tough job very, very well.
I am learning traditional guitar with John Sweeney, and I’d like to take this opportunity to tell anyone thinking about joining up or getting started that this man has a gift, and I have to thank him on a regular basis for not keeping this wonderful gift to himself. He is unbelievably patient, is superbly knowledgeable about music and is just so down to earth and makes the lesson so enjoyable. You can see from him that he clearly loves his job, as he gets the same joy that the student does when things start to come together.
I also attend the Trad Slow Sessions on Friday evenings, and these too are excellent.
I would highly recommend Waltons New School of Music to anyone that is interested in taking up an instrument as I feel that you’re in good hands, you’re getting value for your money (they even have a discount for parking your car in Dury Street Carpark) and you will ultimately come out of there a far better musician than when you went in.
The online classes were very enjoyable. There was a lovely atmosphere, and everyone felt at ease. The teacher was excellent, always ready to help and had a lovely way of encouraging her students. And there was no pressure put on any student to be perfect. [Introducing Piano/Keyboard for Adults]
The [Introducing Tin Whistle] classes are the highlight of my week. I tried other instruments but always gave up, never found one that I could enjoy as much as I do the tin whistle. So much of it is thanks to Harry, who is a brilliant, expert teacher, finding the perfect pace to develop and always encouraging the group
A great teacher who offers excellent tuition catered around each individual student’s needs. One of the best. [Introducing Irish Fiddle]
A fantastic teacher who combines huge enthusiasm for his subject with huge knowledge (and patience!). An excellent course. [Acoustic Blues Guitar Basics]
The relaxed way of teaching makes you feel at home on the [Songwriting Workshop] course and gives you the confidence to perform in front of your fellow classmates. I can’t believe I stood up in front of a room full of people and performed my own songs! It was an amazing experience.
My daughter has a wonderful violin teacher here. She certainly has the knowledge and expertise, but most importantly she knows how to work with children and motivate them to stick with it. We’ll be back.
I started the [Musical Theatre Workshop] wanting to sing but not believing I could. I ended it on a high note – literally. I found my voice through the energy, enthusiasm and love of singing Sinéad shares and gives to you – to find your voice is a powerful gift to yourself.
John is a master of many styles of guitar playing – Irish traditional, flamenco, jazz, rock, you name it – and his enthusiasm for all kinds of music is infectious. This series of classes [Trad Guitar Basics] was very informative and fun to attend, and it gave me the basis for practice and improvement over the coming months. I enjoyed them greatly.
I can’t recommend [tin whistle] lessons with Harry enough, he is so knowledgeable about the instrument and its history, and it is great to hear him play. His teaching style works really well, and I enjoyed the challenges he set for me. He went at my pace, and I felt confident playing despite not having played the tin whistle in years. I can’t wait for the next term!
My teacher is a gem. A kind person with a deep understanding of music, who knows how to teach it. [voice student]
Great intro course. Great teacher, staff and location. Great experience! [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
Studying here was the highlight of my musical experience in Dublin. Both teachers are master musicians and exceptional music educators. Many thanks. Shalom, shalom. [Irish Music Tasters]
Michael’s style of teaching is very informative as he provided a history of different musical styles, which helped [us understand] what is possible on the instrument. [Introducing Harmonica] was a great introduction to the harmonica for someone who is picking it up as a hobby while also providing enough content for someone starting with the instrument seriously.
My teacher is professional, committed to teaching guitar in a fun environment, and he takes a personal interest in his pupils, ensuring that they make steady progress. He is a real gent.
The school has a welcoming atmosphere and a very high standard of teaching that strives to meet the student’s personalised goals. Competitions, scholarships, etc. are great opportunities for students. [voice student]
Great school. Very good, caring teachers make learning enjoyable.
I really enjoy attending my bass guitar lessons at Waltons. It is a very good school, and it is in a great location. My teacher Dave Mooney is brilliant and very nice. I can learn many songs and also choose the songs I like myself. Thank you!
Thank you very much for the very informative, exciting and interesting three days for our students at your school! They really enjoyed playing the tin whistle and bodhrán and singing traditional Irish songs. Your teachers did a really good job, and the students learned a lot in a very short time. A fascinating new experience! [Irish Music Tasters]
I enrolled [for voice lessons] to improve my ability to sing in a choir. I made a lot of progress quickly with Ana, with technical advice that helped me to sing better and more confidently. The lessons, which were based on the foundation of classical technique, were very enjoyable as well, and I am looking forward to further explorations in the new term. Thanks, Ana!
Enjoyed every [voice] lesson due to the support and encouragement, energy and enthusiasm of my teacher.
Good atmosphere, enthusiastic and supportive teacher, and small class size. This course [Trad Guitar Basics] helped me take another important step towards becoming a better guitar player.
Thank you Waltons New School of Music for providing a course I had been looking around for and for delivering on its promises. Superb tutor! [Introducing Music Technology]
I loved the [Introducing Ukulele for Adults] classes. I started with zero knowledge, but within weeks I was playing along to some great songs. The teacher is an accomplished and talented musician, and his love for music comes through in his classes. He was patient, positive and encouraging at all times. Great fun, highly recommended!
Clear and confident [clarinet] teacher.
I like the super friendly staff (both office and teachers), great location and ability to adapt individual tuition to your own pace and time commitments.
Harry is a great teacher, with a passion for Irish music that is infectious. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
My ukulele lessons are on Tuesday evenings, and however hard my day was, I always look forward to them and walk away with a smile. I particularly like the flexibility and patience of my teacher, as well as the relaxed atmosphere.
Paddy Kiernan is a charismatic musician and a great teacher. His greatest asset is his continuously positive and enthusiastic approach to teaching, which derives from his deep love for music. He has encouraged me to work methodically to improve myself as a musician, while also helping me to understand my potential. I’m very lucky to have a teacher like him.
The school has a warm and welcoming environment with a very courteous and helpful administration and excellent teachers. [mandolin student]
Great location, friendly staff…excellent [double bass] teacher and good opening hours.
Our [Introducing Violin for Adults] teacher was very friendly, calm and patient. She took everything step by step and made sure we understood. A very good teacher!
Really enjoyed the Songwriting Workshop! In this difficult time when we can’t go places, music is the best remedy. The teacher delivered very hands-on classes that got me writing a few songs within a few weeks! Thank you. 😀
I felt my basic guitar skills improved considerably over the online improvers Guitar for Adults course. Plenty of challenging and interesting songs to work on to continue to improve. The teacher was great. He clearly knows his stuff and is very easy going, approachable, encouraging and genuinely interested in making sure everyone was getting something from the classes.
My children have been taking online lessons with Barbara Dagg, who is an outstanding piano teacher with the experience and patience to inspire even the most challenging of children. She tried different techniques and ways of teaching to find something that worked well for both of my children. For my oldest, she was supportive and understanding as she went into her first pre-exam and gave her confidence. For my youngest, she tried different ways of working with her to find something that stuck. They have both progressed tremendously in the last year and enjoy playing. We have had a great experience with the school, and I have already recommended it to other families.
Relaxed but progressive atmosphere. Excellent tuition. Professional teacher. [Introducing Singing for Adults]
Thoroughly enjoyed the course [Musical Theatre Workshop]. Sinéad is a super teacher!
I have such a great [violin] teacher. I’d recommend her to anyone.
I really enjoyed learning step-by-step from a master of the instrument, in a relaxed atmosphere. [Introducing Tin Whistle]
My guitar teacher is both very fun and enthusiastic, and he teaches incredibly well – knowing how to tailor his lessons to his students’ needs. I would also recommend the school because of its friendly admin staff, who always reply quickly, and its great location. [electric guitar student]
I’m finding [Introducing Violin for Adults] very enjoyable and not at all intimidating. The teacher makes us feel at ease as we learn the violin.
Anyone can learn the guitar. All you need is a willingness to learn and a professional teacher from Waltons New School of Music. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
My daughter had no previous knowledge of the cello, and we took a big gamble investing in an instrument and lessons. Little did we know that in a short period of time her tutor Enrien would help build her confidence and take time to explain how to play the instrument, from holding the bow to understanding how to read music with ease. We are so impressed with Enrien. Not only he is super professional and shows so much dedication in each lesson, but his teaching has instilled in my daughter such love for the instrument that she wouldn’t miss a lesson! Thank you very much. We are so delighted and would highly recommend the school and its tutors.
I’ve always wanted to play drums, but I didn’t know where to begin. I saw that Waltons offers one-off Intensive Lessons, took the plunge and haven’t looked back! The teacher was so helpful and encouraging that I decided to enrol for regular drum kit lessons and buy an electronic kit. I’m hugely enjoying the experience.
I was very self-conscious about starting piano lessons as an adult beginner, but I am enjoying them so much. My teacher is so encouraging and supportive, and everything is well organised. My Monday music lesson is the highlight of my week.
I absolutely loved learning to play the harmonica. Michael McInerney’s love for the harmonica is infectious! [Introducing Harmonica]
I only started recently, and as a mature student I was a bit apprehensive about going back to music after many many years – but both Andriy, my piano teacher, and Cathy, my fiddle teacher, made me feel at ease, and from week one I have just enjoyed it! Everyone in the school is so friendly and helpful – from the people in the office giving me information on courses and taking time to help me with any queries I had, to the teachers, who are brilliant. I would definitely recommend Waltons – a very welcoming place for students of all ages. Great location. Great teachers. Great staff. A positive experience from the very start!
The passion and ability of the individual teacher makes a huge difference both to the learning outcome and to the enjoyment of the lessons. Sinéad has the ability to make these happen. [voice student]
I was over 50 and wanted to learn to play the fiddle, so I signed up for my first set of classes (10). I nervously attended my first [Introducing Irish Fiddle] class in Waltons, and I needn’t have worried. The admin staff were so welcoming and light-hearted and made me feel at ease. My class teacher has a very natural way of teaching; she is so patient and encouraging and there is a relaxed atmosphere in the class. I will be starting my sixth set of sessions with Waltons at Easter.
Melanie is a very talented teacher, and her [Sing & Swing Jazz Vocal Ensemble] classes are a joy. She has a natural flair for communicating her extensive knowledge of jazz and swing music with infectious enthusiasm and fun. There was a lovely dynamic in our group, and we all learned to sing great songs with impressive rhythm and harmony.
Daniel is a great piano teacher. He is dedicated and very patient, particularly with younger students like my 6-year-old daughter. We’re thrilled with her progress, and she loves the piano lessons. I also like the availability of online lessons at home for younger children. I would highly recommend anyone, beginner or advanced, to take lessons with Waltons New School of Music.
Great teacher with lots of good tips and helpful notes. [Leaving Cert. Music Pre-Exam Revision Workshop]
Great course [Songwriting Workshop]. Really enjoyed having someone walk me through a scary new thing, with great skill and experience.
As a mature student with no prior musical experience, I came to these [banjo] lessons apprehensive and nervous, but Paddy’s easygoing and patient style and ability to break down and explain techniques has helped me to progress. It has been a life changing experience, and I would highly recommend this to students in any age group. [online student]
Brilliant school and wonderful, attentive and adaptive [voice] tuition from my teacher, herself a fantastic vocalist! Loved my lessons, will be back for more, and would highly recommend the place to anyone looking to improve their abilities and confidence in music.
Sinéad is the best voice teacher I’ve ever had. She makes every single lesson fun, interesting, and useful. And many thanks for the online tuition option. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to take lessons anymore, since I am now based in Germany. Finally, every single interaction I’ve had with the school, be it online or in person, has always been very pleasant and helpful.
All together I would give the [Introducing Guitar for Teens] course out of 10 – great teacher, great staff, great facilities – Waltons has it all.
The [Introducing Singing for Adults] course was so much more than I expected. I learned so much and gained confidence within myself. The teacher was an inspiration!
Michael made learning fun and very accessible (i.e. you don’t have to be ‘gifted’ to learn to play). He explains techniques well and is very positive. [Introducing Harmonica]
The teacher’s laid back and informal approach, coupled with vast experience and knowledge of music, made the [Songwriting Workshop] very enjoyable for me, and I would be happy to recommend it to others. The workshop was just what I was looking for and gave me an excellent understanding of how to approach songwriting.
John is a great teacher who found many ways to describe the techniques required. This resourcefulness was so helpful to our understanding. [Introducing Bodhrán]
What I most liked about my voice lessons was the teacher’s skills and open attitude towards the student as a unique individual, as well as her friendly and compassionate manner. This school really stands out for the positive and friendly attitude of all the people who work there, from the teachers to the people at reception, which creates a safe environment to learn and have some fun!
I am only sorry that I did not find out about the [Introducing 5-String Banjo] course sooner at age 61. Better late than never. Paddy is a fantastic teacher, and the course so far is a blast!
The teacher…is lovely, very caring, a natural educator. [Musical Explorations (Ages 5-6)]
I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of learning and developing a new skill. This was further enhanced by the enthusiasm, motivation and continual encouragement and support of the teacher. [Introducing Guitar for Adults]
This course [Songwriting Workshop] gave me great confidence in songwriting, and to have the guidance of a professional songwriter was so helpful. The course helped me both lyrically and musically to realise my songwriting potential, and I am now constantly writing new material.
I’m very grateful to my flute teacher for his patience while I was taking my time to play some high notes properly! In my 2nd year at Waltons, I am able to enjoy playing my favourite tunes!
Paddy is an excellent banjo teacher and quite an amazing banjo player. The classes were very enjoyable and instructive. [Introducing 5-String Banjo]
A great course [Introducing Harmonica]. The teacher was very passionate about it, and I think all the students thoroughly enjoyed it. I did!
I have wanted to do a music technology course for years but the opportunity didn’t come up until I saw that Waltons were offering an online version of their Introducing Music Technology course. Signing up was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I thoroughly enjoyed the course. My zero experience in recording music was no problem because it is tailored for beginners, and looking back on how much I learned in such a short space of time is incredible! The teacher is very friendly, helpful, and explains things in a clear and concise way. I would highly recommend this course to anyone with an interest in the subject!
Our teachers are listed in alphabetical order by surname. You can also filter teachers by department or area.
Click on an image or name to access a biography.
- All Faculty
- Drums • Percussion
- Ensembles
- Guitar • Bass • Ukulele
- Irish Music Tasters
- Jazz
- Leaving Certificate Music
- Music at Work Programme
- Music Technology
- Outreach Programme
- Piano • Keyboard
- Pre-Instrumental (Early Years) Music
- String Instruments
- Theory • Musicianship • Songwriting
- Traditional • Folk • World Instruments
- Voice (Singing)
- Wind Instruments
Aoife Dunne
Lenka Dobai
Ana Dundovic
Grace Galligan
Siobhán Kavanagh
Jennifer McMahon
Joan O’Malley
Melanie O’Reilly
Jade Roche
