Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2
Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 is a free online course by Alison US CA, taught by professional fiddler Doireann Ní Ghlacáin. It builds on foundational skills to teach Irish-specific techniques like slurring and ornamentation. Ideal for beginners who can play D, A, and E strings and want to master jigs, hornpipes, and reels with clear, tuneful playing.
● In stock
Buy at Alison →Price and availability may change. Click to see current details on Alison.
Key features
- Taught by professional Irish fiddler Doireann Ní Ghlacáin
- Covers double jigs, jigs, hornpipes, and reels
- Teaches bow slurring for smooth note changes
- Encourages playing by ear for musical fluency
- Includes downloadable sheet music and resources
- Free online access with structured lesson flow
- Breaks tunes into learnable sections
Pros
- +Free to access with high-quality instruction
- +Focuses on authentic Irish fiddle techniques
- +Builds both technique and musical ear
Cons
- −Requires prior basic fiddle knowledge
- −No physical instrument included
About Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2
What is Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2?
Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 is a free online music course designed for learners who have completed Beginner 1 or already understand basic string navigation on the fiddle. Led by acclaimed Irish fiddler Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, this course deepens your understanding of traditional Irish fiddle playing, focusing on rhythm, ear training, and stylistic techniques that set it apart from classical violin. You’ll expand your repertoire with authentic tunes while learning how to play with clarity, expression, and proper bow control.
Key features
- Expert Instruction — Taught by professional Irish fiddler Doireann Ní Ghlacáin.
- Progressive Curriculum — Builds from double jigs to reels, including 'My Darling Asleep' and 'The Rights of Man'.
- Bow Technique Training — Introduces slurring for smooth note transitions in jigs and hornpipes.
- Ear-Based Learning — Encourages playing by ear to develop musical intuition.
- Ornamentation Focus — Teaches small embellishments essential to authentic Irish sound.
- Free Access — No cost to enroll, with downloadable sheet music provided.
- Structured Lessons — Each tune broken into manageable sections for steady progress.
Who is Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 for?
This course suits beginner fiddle players comfortable with the D, A, and E strings and basic bowing. It’s ideal for those transitioning from classical violin or self-taught players seeking authentic Irish style. Music lovers interested in Celtic traditions, folk festivals, or community sessions will benefit most. No prior knowledge of Irish music is required, but foundational skills are essential.
How does Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 compare?
Unlike generic violin tutorials, this course emphasizes Irish-specific techniques like bow slurs and rhythmic phrasing used in jigs and reels. Compared to standard polypropylene rugs or fixed overhead cranes, it offers cultural and artistic value rather than physical utility, serving as an educational tool instead of a tangible good. It stands out among free online music courses for its focus on tradition, ear training, and performance authenticity.
Best use cases
- →Learning Irish jigs and reels by ear
- →Improving bow control and slurring
- →Transitioning from classical to folk style
- →Preparing for traditional music sessions
- →Building a folk repertoire progressively
Is Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 right for you?
This course is best for beginners who’ve mastered D, A, and E strings and want to advance into traditional Irish music. It’s ideal for self-learners or students supplementing in-person lessons. If you're new to fiddle, start with Beginner 1. Alternatives include paid video platforms or local folk classes, but this offers structured, authentic training at no cost.
How it compares: Compared to general violin tutorials, this course specializes in Irish rhythm, ornamentation, and ear-based learning. It outperforms broad music platforms in cultural authenticity and technique specificity for folk players.
More from Alison
Frequently Asked Questions
What tunes are taught in Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2?
▾
The course teaches 'My Darling Asleep' (double jig), 'The Gander in the Pratie Hole' (jig), 'The Rights of Man' (hornpipe), and a final reel. Each is broken into parts with sheet music provided for reference and practice.
Does this course require prior fiddle experience?
▾
Yes, you should have completed Beginner 1 or be comfortable playing the D, A, and E strings and moving between them. Basic bow control is also expected before starting this level.
How does the course teach playing by ear?
▾
Doireann Ní Ghlacáin demonstrates each tune slowly, phrase by phrase, encouraging repetition and listening. This trains your ear to recognize patterns common in Irish music without relying solely on sheet music.
Is Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 really free?
▾
Yes, the course is completely free to access through Alison US CA. There are no hidden fees, and all lesson materials, including downloadable notes, are included at no cost.
Can I take this course without a physical fiddle?
▾
You’ll need access to a fiddle and bow to practice. The course is instructional only and does not include an instrument, so having one is essential for hands-on learning.
Is Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 in stock at Alison?
▾
Yes, Traditional Irish Fiddle | Beginner 2 is currently in stock at Alison.
Specifications
- Category
- Software
- SKU
- 3620