Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School Program Announces Over 50 Class Options
Early Bird Discount Available on Select Classes until June 15

MILWAUKEE (May, 2019) – From August 12 to 16, kids and adults are invited to experience a week of hands-on learning at the Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School. This year’s Summer School, held the week leading into Milwaukee Irish Fest, features over 50 classes that showcase the rich music, culture, art, history and traditions of Ireland, Irish America and other Celtic nations.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned musician, advance your skills with music classes that focus on a variety of Celtic music styles and instrumentation. From bodhrán to fiddle, from guitar to singing, there are opportunities for every one of all ages and musical capabilities.

Some notable music classes, taught by world-renowned musicians include:

• Fiddle Variation, Innovation & Improvisation – Fergal Scahill of We Banjo 3
• Irish Guitar: Backing, Flatpicking and Fingerstyle – Shane Hennessy
• Songs of Peace – Tommy Sands

The Summer School also recruits professional local instructors, such as Randy Gosa and Amy Richter, to teach on a variety of topics, from ceili dancing to Irish language, bodhrán, guitar and more.

Cultural class highlights include:

• Celtic Calligraphy
• Sean-nos dance
• Roots Into Words: Writing Your Irish Memoir

Seo Linn, a contemporary Irish group from Ireland, also returns to lead the Celtic Kids camp in a unique, fun program exploring singing, rhythm and language. Kids ages 7 to 12 will have the opportunity to learn Irish music through vocal exercises, drumming and song.  The Celtic Kids Camp runs Tuesday, August 13 through Thursday, August 15 at the CelticMKE Center in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Only have a half day? Sampler and workshop classes are available on Friday morning (August 16), with topics ranging from Celtic spirituality to Irish music. The Kane Sisters, part of the Milwaukee Irish Fest Galway showcase, will teach a fiddle workshop and Fiona Fitzsimons returns with her popular Irish Genealogy workshop.

Classes will be held at the CelticMKE Center in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin as well as surrounding locations. For a complete list of classes, instructors and to register, visit irishfestsummerschool.com. Now through June 15, select classes have an Early Bird discount. Class sizes are limited to optimize the experience so register early for a guaranteed spot. All registrants will receive one complimentary admission ticket to Milwaukee Irish Fest.

About Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School

The Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School is a part of CelticMKE, a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing Celtic music, history and culture with people in the Greater Milwaukee area and across the world. Whether you want to reconnect with your roots or explore a culture that’s new to you, CelticMKE is your go-to resource to all things Irish and Celtic. Learn more at celticmke.com.  

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