On Sunday, 13th October, the Rathmore Club in Cambridge came alive with the sounds of Irish traditional music as we hosted our first Learn to Play Day. This event was part of the UK charity Music for All’s nationwide initiative, designed to inspire beginners and rekindle the love for music in those who had left it behind. Our goal was to create a space where people of all ages and abilities could discover or rediscover the joy of playing an instrument—specifically, traditional Irish instruments.
The day started on a high note with a traditional Irish music session performed by our younger members. Their enthusiasm set the tone for the day of music, learning, and community spirit. From tin whistles to bodhráns, fiddles to mandolins, attendees had the chance to try their hand at a variety of instruments under the guidance of our experienced teachers.
One of the highlights of the day was hearing from attendees like Rob, who shared his excitement in an email afterward:
“That was a really nice afternoon introduction, Erin, thank you for the invite. It was so welcoming and friendly. Certainly, I’ll pop along on Wednesday to see a full ‘an seisun.’ Also, I need to join the Rathmore Club because it surely serves the best pint of Liffey Water in town! Best regards, Rob.”
This feedback truly captured the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere we aimed to create. It was great to see participants not only enjoy the music but also feel a sense of community and connection.
We were also honoured to have a trustee from Music for All drop by to see the event in action. She was there to take photos and videos for the charity’s website, social media, and annual report. One of the things she found particularly impressive was the multigenerational aspect of our event. While many Learn to Play Day events across the country cater primarily to children, ours welcomed families, retirees, and younger participants alike.
Beyond the music, there was an incredible opportunity for networking and community-building. One participant works for Cambridgeshire County Council in the Culture Department. She also has strong connections to the Irish music scene, having recently attended the Wexford Fleadh. Meeting newcomers potentially open doors for future collaborations that will strengthen our music community.
We also made connections with local schools, who helped spread the word. Many parents brought their children along after seeing the event in school newsletters, and they were pleasantly surprised to find that they, too, could join in the fun and learn an instrument alongside their children.
The response to our first time hosting a Learn to Play Day was overwhelmingly positive. We received numerous enquiries and expressions of interest leading up to the event, and it was heartening to see such enthusiasm for Irish traditional music from the wider public. The success of this event was a testament to the power of music to bring people together; it has certainly strengthened our resolve to keep offering inclusive, community-focused musical experiences at Cambridge Comhaltas.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue building on the connections made during the event, and we hope to see many of the attendees at future sessions, particularly at our regular gatherings on Wednesday nights. Whether you’re new to Irish traditional music or looking to reconnect, the Rathmore Club is your place to learn, play, and grow in a welcoming, supportive community.
