The Experience
Enjoy an authentic Irish music experience at Fiddlers Retreat in Thurles, County Tipperary. Led by All-Ireland champion and experienced teacher Theresa Bourke, this small-group retreat gives you the opportunity to explore traditional Irish fiddle music in the heart of Ireland.
You'll join a group of six to ten musicians for eight hours of tuition and informal playing. The programme includes up to six hours of structured workshops, where you'll explore traditional tunes and the bowing techniques that give Irish fiddle music its distinctive character.
The retreat is suitable for upper-beginner to advanced fiddle players, with other melody players welcome by arrangement. Theresa provides individual guidance throughout the workshops, helping you explore traditional playing styles in a friendly group setting.
Your experience also includes a guided traditional Irish pub music session, where you'll enjoy local musicians playing together. Group transport to the evening session is included.
You'll stay in a private en-suite room at the four-star Anner Hotel in Thurles, with breakfast included each morning. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation and leisure facilities, including a swimming pool and sauna. Two home-cooked lunches are also included in your retreat.
What’s Included
- Up to six hours of structured fiddle workshops with Theresa Bourke.
- Two hours of informal playing and mentoring.
- Guided traditional Irish pub music session with group transport.
- Private en-suite hotel accommodation with breakfast included.
- Two home-cooked lunches and learning materials.
Important Information
The retreat is designed for upper-beginner to advanced fiddle players. Other melody players may attend by arrangement. Please bring your fiddle, tuner and spare strings, along with a notebook.
Evening meals, drinks and personal purchases are not included. Travel to and from Thurles and travel insurance are also excluded.
The Weather
The workshops and organised music activities take place indoors.
Session Length
The retreat runs from Tuesday to Friday or Friday to Monday, depending on your chosen dates. The programme includes eight hours of tuition and informal playing, with three nights of hotel accommodation.
Numbers
Retreats operate with a minimum of six and a maximum of ten participants. The price is per person and includes private en-suite accommodation with no single supplement.
Spectators
Participation in the retreat requires a booking for each person.
What to Wear
Wear comfortable clothing and bring suitable footwear for exploring the local area. A rain jacket is also recommended.
Availability
Midweek retreats run from Tuesday to Friday, with weekend retreats available from Friday to Monday. Dates are subject to the supplier's retreat schedule and availability.
Locations
Thurles, County Tipperary, Ireland. Accommodation is provided at the Anner Hotel or an equivalent property.
