Irish Traditional Music Education
Comhaltas in Britain recognises the important contribution our teachers make in passing on our cultural traditions. Whether in branches or schools as volunteers or paid, without those teachers instilling a love and enjoyment of Irish traditional music we would not have the next generation of musicians to continue the living tradition.
Below, are just some of the ways we are continuing to support our teachers and their students' development.
Scrúdú Ceol Tíre (SCT) – Irish Traditional Music Graded Exams
The SCT exams are a graded programme in Irish traditional music, designed to guide musicians from beginner to advanced levels. Covering 12 stages, from Elementary to Performance Diploma, the exams combine tune performance, music theory, aural skills, and knowledge of Irish music history and traditions.
Candidates perform for an experienced examiner in a friendly, conversational setting, either in person or online, and successful participants receive a Certificate of Proficiency.
Now also Ofqual-regulated in Britain, the SCT ensures internationally recognised standards, and higher-level exams can earn UCAS points for university entry. It’s not just about playing tunes - it’s about understanding and carrying forward the rich heritage of Irish traditional music.
Apply Now for Next Summer!
Applications are open for SCT exams taking place next summer. Deadline: 31st January 2026.
Watch this video from Majella (Director of SCT) breaking down the process of the SCT exams.
Teacher Training with Comhaltas
The TTCT (Teastas i dTeagasc Ceolta Tíre) is an intensive, one-week residential teacher training course held in Monkstown, Co. Dublin. Established in 1980, the programme is designed to equip experienced teachers of Irish traditional music with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality tuition across a variety of learning environments.
With over 800 graduates worldwide, TTCT continues to raise teaching standards and ensure the best possible learning experience for students of Irish traditional music.
What you’ll cover
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Teaching methodologies
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Child protection
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Learning styles
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And more
Who can apply
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Aged 20+ at the start of the year
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Experience teaching both groups and individuals
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At least 100 hours of teaching across a range of levels
Event Date: 19th – 25th July 2026
Closing Date for Applications: 31st January 2026
Please note the new application closing date!
Watch out on our social media pages for details of the Comhaltas in Britain TTCT 2026 Scholarship, in memory of Caroline Judge Fegan.
Caroline Judge Fegan TTCT Scholarship 2025
CLOSED!
Comhaltas in Britain are proud to launch our third successive scholarship for a teacher of traditional Irish music to attend CCÉ's Testas i dTeagasc Ceolta Tíre (TTCT) diploma course. The award is made to one teacher from Britain each year and will cover the cost of the residential course and a contribution towards travel.
The closing date to apply for this year's scholarship award is 12pm on 14th of May.
Details and application form can be downloaded here
Scoil Éigse Summer School 2025
An essential part of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Scoil Éigse offers young and up and coming musicians a unique opportunity to learn from traditional music’s best teachers and musicians. This week of intensive tuition and fun filled sessions at ‘Club na hÉigse’ culminates in a special concert featuring students and tutors.
They also provide adult mixed classes as well as special needs and support classes in the evenings.
Scoil Éigse dates : 3rd to 8th August 2025
Early Bird deadline: 21st July at 12pm
Deadline for applying: 25th July at 12pm
Scoil Éigse Part-Scholarship 2025
1st and 2nd place winners in the 12–15 and 15–18 age categories at the All-Britain Fleadh are eligible for a scholarship discount for this year’s Comhaltas Summer School.
This applies to tuition in the following classes:
Banjo, Whistle, Irish Harp, Fiddle, Singing, Uilleann Pipes, Flute, Concertina, Button Accordion, and Bodhrán.
An amazing opportunity to develop your skills and connect with other young musicians!
10 Week Lesson Plan
In this course you will be taken through the basics of Traditional Irish music, learning about the various instruments and tune types involved and you will learn to play the Tin-Whistle.
If you're interested in further lessons in Irish Traditional Music then please contact us.
Pre - TTCT Online Course 2025
21st September 2025
Comhaltas is running a one day online preparatory teaching course. It gives musicians the opportunity to explore their skills as aspiring teachers.
No previous teaching experience is required and the course will cover Methodology, Common Repertoire Types, Child Protection, SCT as a teaching tool, Teaching Practice/Demonstration and concludes with Reflection and Discussion.
You can contact Majella Barley (Director of TTCT) for support.
Pre-TTCT online course date : 21st September
Deadline for applying: 12th September
