Kids Classes

Kids’ classes are on MONDAYS after school in the Music Department of Stranmillis University College

Kids Whistle - Fióna Ní Mhearáin

Beginners Whistle (6yrs+) 4.45 - 5.25pm (40 minutes)

This course is designed for those who are just starting out on the whistle and have no previous experience. We will learn skills in holding and playing the whistle and start with tunes that go with simple songs like Mary Had a Little Lamb.

Improvers Whistle, 5.25 - 6.05pm (40 minutes)

This class is designed for those who have already completed a term or two of beginners whistle with us or can play a few simple tunes like Mary Had a Little Lamb or Twinkle Twinkle. If you are new to Belfasttrad and ready to learn tunes like I’ll Tell My Ma then this class is for you.

Advanced Whistle, 6.05 - 6.45pm (45 minutes)

This course is designed for those who have completed at least three terms at improvers level and are ready for learning reels, putting tunes together in sets and applying ornamentation like cuts, taps and rolls.

Kids Fiddle- Melanie Houton

Beginners (7yrs+) 4.45 - 5.15pm (30 minutes)

This course is for new beginners to the fiddle. Learn how to hold the fiddle, the names of the strings, simple scales and tunes. (30mins)

Improvers 5.15 - 6. 00pm (45 minutes)

Thes courses are for kids who have completed a number of terms at beginners level and are confident playing a tune or two. (45mins)

Melanie Houton

Kids Fiddle
Melanie is originally from Inishowen, Co. Donegal and is a highly respected player and teacher. She has played some of Ireland's biggest festivals and appeared on flagship television and radio programmes for national broadcasters RTÉ, TG4 and BBC. In 2019, Melanie and her sister Paula released their first album, 'A Snapshot in Time' which they launched at Belfast and Ennis TradFests. She is especially good with the little ones who want to get started on the fiddle.

Fióna Ní Mhearáin

Kids & Adult Tin Whistle Classes
Fióna began learning whistle as a child with BelfastTrad tutor and flute player, Davy Maguire.  She has a long relationship with BelfastTrad having been involved with the society as a student, a committee member, administrator and a tutor.   She is a qualified teacher and over the years has taught in a wide range of settings.  She loves to make difficult and challenging skills accessible for learners of all ages.