Irish music and Sean-nós dance classes rooted in tradition.

Chesapeake Trad offers welcoming classes in Sean-nós dance for students who want to deepen their connection to this living tradition.

Whether you are just beginning or building on previous experience, each class focuses on rhythm, musicality, community, and a strong foundation in traditional style.

Offerings may include weekly classes, beginner-friendly instruction, workshops, and special sessions for dancers and musicians of different ages and experience levels.

SEAN-NÓS DANCE • COMMUNITY LEARNING

Classes for every stage of the journey

From first steps to deeper traditional study, these classes are built to help students grow in skill, confidence, and connection.

Each offering emphasizes rhythm, listening, style, and participation, giving students meaningful ways to experience Irish music and dance as something shared, social, and alive.

01

Beginning Sean-nós Dance

A welcoming introduction to the fundamentals of Sean-nós dance, including posture, rhythm, footwork, and improvisational style. Perfect for students who are new to the tradition or looking to build a strong foundation.

02

Intermediate & Advanced Sean-nós Dance

For dancers ready to expand their steps, refine musicality, and explore more nuanced phrasing and personal expression. Students continue developing technique while deepening their understanding of traditional style.

03

Tin Whitle Music Classes

Instruction for students interested in learning Irish tunes on the tin whistle, style, listening skills, and session etiquette. Classes support musicians in developing both technique and a stronger connection to the shared tradition.

04

Workshops & Special Sessions

Seasonal workshops and focused sessions may cover choreography, competition preparation, rhythm work, tune learning, cultural topics, or community gatherings that bring dancers and musicians together.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Classes that honor tradition while welcoming each student in.

Chesapeake Trad classes are rooted in the idea that Irish music and dance are best learned as living traditions — through careful listening, shared experience, repetition, and joy. Students are encouraged to build both skill and confidence in an environment that feels supportive and engaging.

Sean-nós on the Hill offers semester-long group instruction in Sean-nós, old-style step, and tin whistle. Classes are held on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, near Stanton Park / Union Station, and meet on Tuesdays. Dance classes meet once a week for 45 minutes, with an optional additional 20 minutes for tin whistle instruction.

Depending on the class, students may work on foundational steps, tune learning, rhythm exercises, performance readiness, musical expression, and cultural context. The goal is not only to teach material, but to help each student feel connected to the tradition and excited to keep learning.
Supportive Learning
Students are welcomed at a variety of levels and encouraged to learn in a way that feels grounded, personal, and enjoyable.
Tuesday Classes in Capitol Hill
Weekly classes are held on Tuesdays on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, near Stanton Park and Union Station, making it easy for local students to join a consistent learning rhythm.
Flexible Pricing
Classes are $16 per class on a pay-as-you-go basis, with an optional tin whistle session available for an additional $4.
Joyful Participation
The focus is not only on learning steps or tunes, but on joining a living, shared practice through music, movement, and community.
REGISTER INTEREST

Ask About Current Class Offerings

If you are interested in Sean-nós dance classes, traditional Irish music instruction, workshops, or upcoming opportunities, get in touch and share a little about the student and experience level.