Learning is easy, fun and varied thanks to the extensive range of offerings at the Academy of the Irish Cultural Centre New England. The fall line-up kicks off in September with three ten-week courses at Adult Beginner and Adult Intermediate levels taught by established, qualified Instructors. Choose from Irish language, Tin Whistle, or Bodhran classes. To help you make your choice, the ICCNE is hosting an Academy Open House on Friday evening, September 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Irish Cultural Centre. There is no admission charge to the Open House. Come meet the instructors, ask questions and learn more about the ten-week classes beginning in September.

The ICCNE works closely with its Instructors to create a convenient and meaningful learning environment for adults. In September, the ICCNE Academy welcomes back Bodhran instructor Mance Grady, the first American Bodhran player to receive the distinction of being named a Master Player by the National Endowmnet for the Arts. Tin Whistle Instructor, Stuart Peak comes to the Academy after enjoying great sessions with participants at the ICCNE Children’s Celtic Camp. ICCNE Academy Irish language instructors are affiliated with Cumann na Gaelige i mBoston, the Irish Language Society of Boston.

"Taking an Academy class was one of the most enjoyable local things I’ve ever done and a handy way of checking off one of my to-do’s from my bucket-list," reflects one new member to the ICCNE. "I knew that I would have an excellent instructor, but I had no idea how enriching the interaction with other students would be. Everyone participated and shared in the learning."

As Bodhran Instructor Mane Grady summarizes, "the Open House is a relaxed setting for waylaying the fears of any shy or curious student. You’ll hear how Academy Instructors who are specialists in the Irish traditions are able to impart mass knowledge they have learned through the years and make you comfortable on the Irish Cultural Centre campus and in the individual classroom." There is no admission charge, so plan on attending the Open House and then enjoying some social time and a bite to eat in the ICC Pub.

All Academy classes take place at the Irish Cultural Centre and require pre-registration. Registration closes the week classes begin. To learn more, please visit the ICCNE website at www.irishculture.org or call 781-821-8291