About the Course

CelloFest Ireland 2026 is a week-long summer course for adult cellists who want to deepen their playing, creativity, and connection through music.

Set in the inspiring surroundings of The Lark Concert Hall and the Irish Institute of Music and Song, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin this immersive six-day experience blends focused musical development with rest, reflection, and community.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic amateur, a university student, or an emerging professional, you’ll find space here to learn, grow, and rediscover the joy of playing the cello.

Daily Group Sessions and Masterclasses

Each morning begins with group cello sessions exploring sound, ensemble awareness, and technique in a supportive atmosphere.

Afternoons include masterclasses where participants can perform and receive individual guidance from our faculty.

These sessions encourage both personal growth and collective inspiration — learning from one another’s playing as much as from direct feedback.

Individual Lessons

Every participant will receive at least one 20 minute one-to-one lesson with one of our core faculty. These focused lessons allow for detailed technical work, interpretative development, and musical exploration.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own repertoire, from Bach to contemporary works, or to discover new pieces during the week.

Ensemble Projects and Final Concert

Collaboration lies at the heart of CelloFest. Throughout the week, participants rehearse in small and large cello ensembles, guided by the faculty, leading to a joyful final concert in The Lark Concert Hall.

It’s a chance to share music made together and celebrate the week’s achievements with an audience.

Creative Workshops

Beyond traditional study, participants can explore new perspectives through workshops in:

Improvisation and composition - discovering freedom and creativity in sound.
Body awareness and movement - learning to play with greater ease, balance, and mindfulness.
Cello mechanics - practical insights into specific techniques on the cello. Shifting, a real legato, practicing scales, string crossing, exercises.

These sessions help players deepen both their musical understanding and physical comfort.

Excursion and Reflection

Midweek, the festival includes a guided visit to Newgrange, Ireland’s 5200-year-old Neolithic monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This day offers rest, inspiration, and a deeper connection to Irish culture and landscape, an integral part of the festival’s spirit.