Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2
Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 is a self-paced online course by Alison US CA, taught by professional guitarist Michael McCague. It focuses on Drop D tuning and jig rhythms for Irish folk music. Price varies. Ideal for beginners building on basic guitar skills to play traditional tunes.
● In stock
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Key features
- Drop D tuning for authentic Irish tone
- Step-by-step jig rhythm instruction
- Teaches chords in G and A minor keys
- Four traditional jigs with breakdowns
- Led by professional Irish guitarist
- Fiddle melody support for timing
- Self-paced online video format
Pros
- +Specialized in Irish folk guitar style
- +Clear, structured progression from basics
- +Real musical context with fiddle backing
Cons
- −Requires prior basic guitar knowledge
- −No interactive feedback or live support
About Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2
What is Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2?
Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 is an online video course designed for learners advancing beyond basic guitar skills. Created by professional performer Michael McCague and offered through Alison US CA, this course builds directly on the Beginner 1 curriculum. It teaches the Drop D tuning central to Irish folk guitar’s rich, resonant sound. With a focus on jigs and chord progressions across multiple keys, the course helps students expand their repertoire and rhythmic technique in authentic traditional settings.
Key features
- Drop D Tuning Focus — Master the tuning used by Irish traditional musicians for deeper, driving rhythm guitar.
- Jig Rhythm Emphasis — Learn to play in 6/8 time, essential for Irish folk dance music.
- Multiple Key Instruction — Build chord knowledge in G, A minor, and other traditional keys.
- Tune-by-Tune Breakdown — Learn four jigs including ‘Tae in the Bog’ and ‘Fasten the Leg on Her’ with step-by-step guidance.
- Expert Instruction — Taught by Michael McCague, a seasoned performer in the Irish music scene.
- Melody Support — Fiddle player Doireann Ní Ghlacáin demonstrates each tune, helping guitarists lock in with ensemble playing.
- Self-Paced Learning — Access lessons anytime, ideal for independent practice and review.
Who is Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 for?
This course suits guitarists who have completed the Beginner 1 course or have foundational knowledge of standard tuning and basic chords. It’s ideal for folk music enthusiasts, especially those drawn to Irish sessions and traditional instrumentation. Self-learners and adult beginners seeking structured, authentic instruction will benefit most.
How does Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 compare?
Unlike general beginner guitar courses, this program specializes in Irish folk rhythm, a niche often overlooked. Compared to broad acoustic guitar tutorials, it offers targeted training in Drop D tuning and jig accompaniment—skills rarely covered in standard polypropylene rugs or fixed overhead cranes.
Best use cases
- →Learning Irish jig accompaniment
- →Mastering Drop D tuning for folk
- →Building session-ready rhythm skills
- →Self-guided traditional music study
- →Continuing from Beginner 1 course
Is Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 right for you?
Buy Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 if you're a beginner guitarist with basic chord knowledge and want to specialize in Irish folk music. Best for those who completed Beginner 1 or understand standard tuning. Not for absolute beginners. Consider general acoustic courses if you're not focused on traditional rhythms.
How it compares: Compared to general acoustic guitar courses, this program offers niche training in Irish folk rhythm and Drop D tuning. It's more specialized than broad beginner tutorials but less versatile for non-traditional genres.
More from Alison
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Drop D tuning and why is it used in Irish guitar?
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Drop D tuning lowers the low E string to D, creating a deeper, resonant sound ideal for driving Irish folk rhythms. It allows easy power chords and strong bass runs, widely used in traditional sessions for its full, percussive tone.
Does this course include sheet music or tabs?
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The course does not specify inclusion of sheet music or tablature. Instruction is video-based with visual playing demonstrations. Learners should be prepared to follow along by ear or through repeated viewing.
How long is the Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 course?
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The course consists of 11 video lessons. Total runtime isn't specified, but lessons are structured to be concise and focused on specific tunes and techniques, designed for self-paced completion over several weeks.
Is this course suitable for absolute beginners?
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No, it's not for absolute beginners. You should already know basic chords and standard tuning. This course builds on Beginner 1, focusing on intermediate concepts like new keys and jig rhythms in Irish music.
Can I take this course without the Beginner 1 class?
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Yes, if you already understand basic guitar chords and standard tuning. Familiarity with the key of D and reel rhythms will help you keep up, as the course assumes prior knowledge of these fundamentals.
Is Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 in stock at Alison?
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Yes, Traditional Irish Guitar | Beginner 2 is currently in stock at Alison.
Specifications
- Category
- Software
- SKU
- 3882