(To help folks know exactly what each class covers, I updated this page on Tuesday, November 4, to include detailed lesson plans. Scroll all the way down for the newly added demo video.)

The Irish whistle is one of the simplest and most beautiful instruments you’ll ever play. In this class, we’ll explore five classic tune types using a learn-by-ear approach supported by clear recordings and sheet music. You’ll gain control over breathing, rhythm, and phrasing while beginning your journey with traditional ornamentation like cuts, rolls, and slides.

This is a friendly, structured introduction that keeps things musical and relaxed. You’ll finish with several complete tunes and the confidence to keep going on your own.

These are online workshops via Zoom. You’ll get a meeting link and handouts by email shortly before the first session.

Notice the Roman numeral “I” in the title? I often offer the same class again—with all-new music. For example, Novice Irish Whistle – Airs, Polkas, Jigs, Hornpipes & Reels I, II, or III. That way, you keep strengthening your core techniques without repeating the same tunes every time.

Bring: Key of D Irish whistle (Tin whistle)

You’ll Get: Video recordings of each class · Sheet music

What We’ll Do Each Week

Week 1 – Thursday, Nov 13 — 3–4 Central Time (USA) / 4–5 Eastern Time (USA)

• Review of the basics.

• Chord arpeggio guided practice for today’s tune.

• G major scale.

• “The Southwind” in G major

• Slides

• “The Ballydesmond Polka” in G Major

• Cuts

Week 2 – Thursday, Nov 20 — 3–4 Central Time (USA) / 4–5 Eastern Time (USA)

• Chord arpeggio guided practice for today’s tune.

• Jig rhythm.

• A dorian scale.

• “The Lilting Banshee” in A dorian.

• Cuts, strikes, and the basic roll.

No Class – Thursday, Nov 27 — Happy Thanksgiving!

Week 3 – Thursday, Dec 4 — 3–4 Central Time (USA) / 4–5 Eastern Time (USA)

• Chord arpeggio guided practice for today’s tune.

• Hornpipe rhythm.

• E dorian scale.

• “King of the Fairies” in E dorian.

Week 4 – Thursday, Dec 11 — 3–4 Central Time (USA) / 4–5 Eastern Time (USA)

• Chord arpeggio guided practice for today’s tune.

• D major scale.

• “The Maid Behind the Bar” - Reel in D major

🌟 Multi-Course Bundle – 20% Off

Choose three or more courses. Perfect if you want to mix dulcimer with Tabledit, whistle, ukulele, or harmonica. You’ll save compared to single registration.

🌟 Important: If you want to take advantage of the 3-Class Bundle, do this exactly:

🌟 1) Visit https://www.stephenseifert.com/holiday-fourweek-course-registration and add at least three classes to your cart.

🌟 2) At checkout, use the coupon code COURSEBUNDLE to save 20%.

🌟 If, for any reason, you don’t get your 20% off, email me at stephen@stephenseifert.com. This usually happens when someone buys courses one at a time over multiple days and later wishes they had went with the bundle. Whatever you need, tell me your email address and full name, and I’ll straighten it out.