Survey on online teaching of Irish traditional music

The Covid-19 pandemic brought about an unprecedented shift in the way we teach and learn Irish traditional music. As a forward-thinking organisation, Comhaltas invites teachers, students, parents and branches to reflect on the ways we have adapted to incorporate technology into the transmission of traditional Irish music in the past eighteen months. This survey takes about 15 mins to complete. The results will be used to identify what aspects of online classes (if any) were effective and to establish the current needs of teachers and students.

This research can help us to meet the opportunities and challenges facing us in the coming years. All ideas are welcome. Your input will inspire new projects and inform future approaches to building resources for online and in-person classes.

Comhaltas Ceoltóirı́ Éireann, from its foundation in 1951, recognises that a focus on providing a comprehensive teaching and structured transmission framework is key to the effective development and promotion of our traditional Irish arts. Today, we have approximately 40,000 members in more than four hundred branches around the world. Comhaltas educational programmes aim to educate, develop and inspire students to achieve their full musical potential and provide them with the skills for enjoyment of music, song, dance and language. The mission of Comhaltas is to continue to enhance music education and to provide a pathway for further lifelong learning while developing a sense of preservation and promoting cultural identity.

Before Covid-19, Comhaltas held over 1,500 music classes for children and adults each week across every county in Ireland and in 18 countries internationally. These classes offer instruction on all instruments within the tradition. Our branch network provides the focal point for community action. The Comhaltas branch class is more than simply the local music school: We provide a community environment that enhances learning while perfecting skills and developing an attachment and commitment to our rich cultural heritage that will stay with members throughout their lives. This project is co-ordinated by Comhaltas Facilitator for Education Structures Majella Bartley, and Dr Robert Harvey.

To join the conversation and contribute your reflections and ideas for the future of online music learning, visit education.comhaltas.ie, or visit the links below:

Link for Teachers Survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QYWW7B9

Link for Students Survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZV8LJLM

Link for Parents Survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QYP3TJW

Link for Comhaltas Branches Survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QDH5RY3