Fiddle Ornamentation in Irish Music

The music of Ireland is full of energy, beauty and passion. In this workshop we will break down some of the elements that make irish music so special including ornamentation, groove and flow. I was told by various teachers that no one note is too important, it can’t be left out. We’ll also have a look into how silence can have a big impact on the flow of a tune. Bowing can be a bit of a chore sometimes, so we’ll have a look at a few bowing techniques that might help achieve that wonderful groove that Irish music has. Some notation will be available. Please note, this workshop is not intended for beginners.

Hailing from Norwich, Nick has performed and taught professionally since 2010 after completing the BMus Folk and Traditional Music with a 1st from Newcastle University. Since then, he has been part of various musical projects both in the UK and abroad. In 2015 Nick joined the Germany-based Irish music trio ‘Iontach’ and has since toured all over the country performing and giving workshops in both fiddle and diatonic button accordion. More recently, in 2024, Nick became the third member of the balfolk trio ‘Woodwose’, specializing in playing for dancing and with an emphasis on newly self-composed melodies. Nick’s musical style stems from a blend of inspirations and music traditions including Great Britain, Ireland, France and Scandinavia.