Irish Traditional Music Performance - MA Graduate profile
Key information
This programme can lead to careers in the following sectors
- Professional performer
- Recording and content production
- Music education (primary, post-primary, secondary and tertiary)
- Music technology
- Arts management
Kara O’Brien, Graduate.
“The year I spent in the Traditional Music Performance M.A. was undoubtedly one of the most formative in my life. As an international student, the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the tradition, both through performance and critical engagement, allowed me to make connections and gain the skills I needed to become confident as a practitioner of the tradition.
From building repertoire to networking with top performers, tradition bearers, and researchers, to performing with my amazing classmates and visiting archives, conferences, and sessions, the MA was a non-stop year of adventure that made me a better singer and a better human being.
Whether you’re a long-time participant in the tradition who wants to deepen your practice and knowledge, or a newcomer looking to get your foot in the door, this is the place to be. The programme offers unparalleled opportunities for practice, performance, networking, and research. The tutors are world class, and Limerick’s central location gives you access to sessions and festivals around Ireland.
If you are looking for a way to move your traditional practice to the next level, this is the course for you.”
Rebecca McCarthy-Kent, Graduate
"My time doing the MA in Irish Music Performance in the Irish World Academy was one of the most worthwhile experiences in my musical life to date. This course helped me to grow and evolve as a musician both professionally and personally by giving me access to so many different learning experiences and performance opportunities. From the variety of lectures, ensemble groups, one-to-one classes, and independent studies to the array of masterclasses with some of the best tutors in the country, this course covered such a wide range of material in the space of two semesters. Each semester finished with a performance opportunity which gave me a chance to work with other musicians and work on repertoire lists, as well as try out different venues and sound. The resources and equipment on offer to students is second-to-none, with full use of recording studios, microphones, pedals, computers and upright and grand pianos. The MA in Irish Music Performance was the perfect place to launch myself into the world as a professional musician. It was an incredible experience for me.”
Ernestine Healy, Graduate
In this edition of UL’s Alumni Spotlight, we meet Mayo-born musician, educator, and composer, Ernestine Healy, whose multifaceted career bridges performance, leadership, and arts education.
A graduate of University of Limerick’s Professional Master of Education in Music and the MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance, Ernestine reflects on her time at UL's School of Education and Irish World Academy of Music and Dance and how the UL experience continues to shape her creative and professional journey.
Read more of Ernestine's Alumni Spotlight.
Still Curious?
The team regularly hosts and takes part in webinars to support future students. If you would like to learn more or ask questions at an online information session, click below.
