1. Can you take music exams in Irish traditional music in Britain?
Yes. Comhaltas in Britain offers the SCT (Scrúdu Ceoil Tíre) exams, a structured series of examinations designed specifically for Irish traditional music. These cover performance, repertoire, style, and knowledge of the tradition, and are available from beginner to advanced levels across Comhaltas branches in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Cambridge, Newcastle, Nottingham, Middlesbrough, Newport (Wales), the Midlands, and other locations in Britain.

​

2. What are the SCT (Scrúdu Ceoil Tíre) exams?
The SCT exams, delivered through Comhaltas in Britain, assess a student’s progress in Irish traditional music. Candidates perform set tunes, demonstrate stylistic awareness, and answer questions about the history and culture of the tradition. These exams are available for learners of all ages at Comhaltas centres across England, Scotland, and Wales, including Glasgow, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Middlesbrough, and Newport.

​

3. What is the TTCT (Teastas i dTeagasc Ceolta Tíre) qualification?
The TTCT is a prestigious teaching diploma in Irish traditional music, established in 1980. It is a week-long residential course held in Monkstown, Co. Dublin, and is designed for experienced musicians who wish to develop and formalise their teaching skills. With over 800 graduates worldwide, the TTCT sets a high standard in traditional music education and is supported by Comhaltas in Britain for teachers across the UK, including those based in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle, and Nottingham.

​

4. Who can apply for the TTCT teacher training course in Britain?
Applicants must be aged 20 or over, have experience teaching both groups and individuals, and have completed at least 100 hours of teaching across a range of levels. The course is ideal for experienced musicians in Britain, including those based in Liverpool, Leeds, Cambridge, Birmingham, the Midlands, Middlesbrough, and Newport (Wales), looking to strengthen their teaching practice.

​

5. What topics are covered on the TTCT course?
During the TTCT, participants study teaching methodologies, child protection, learning styles, and more. The course combines practical workshops, peer learning, and lectures to ensure teachers in Britain are fully prepared to deliver high-quality music education.

​

6. How much does it cost to take Irish music exams in Britain?
Costs vary depending on the level and type of exam. SCT exam fees are set annually by Comhaltas in Britain. The TTCT teaching diploma has a separate fee that covers tuition, materials, and residential accommodation. For up-to-date prices, contact your local Comhaltas branch in Britain, including those in Glasgow, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Middlesbrough, Newport, and other branches across Britain.

​

7. Are Irish music exams recognised internationally?
Yes. The SCT exams offered by Comhaltas in Britain are Ofqual-regulated and widely recognised within the Irish traditional music community, while the TTCT diploma is highly respected worldwide. Graduates often teach and perform across Britain, Europe, and North America.

​

8. How can I prepare for Irish traditional music exams in Britain?
Preparation usually includes regular lessons with a qualified teacher, guided practice on repertoire, and study of Irish music history and culture. Many learners also attend workshops, summer schools, and classes run by Comhaltas branches in Glasgow, London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Cambridge, Newcastle, Nottingham, Middlesbrough, Newport, Birmingham, and the Midlands to build their skills.