scots music group

Accordion (piano) - Absolute Beginner

Learn simple tunes, basic techniques and accompaniment with the left hand.

Bodhran - Absolute Beginner

Learn how to play this popular percussion instrument. Exploring rhythms, techniques and tune accompaniment.

Cello - Absolute Beginner

A chance to start learning cello with a view to playing Scots tunes and accompaniments.

Unless you have some previous playing experience, it is only possible to start in this class at the beginning of the Autumn term. If you have played a little before, it may be possible to join at a later date. Please contact the SMG office for more information.

Clarsach - Absolute Beginner

Learn the basics of how to play the clarsach, including technique, fingering etc. Learn some basic tunes and accompaniment.

Dance - Ceilidh Dance - Absolute Beginner

Relaxing, fun and a great way to keep fit. There is an informal approach to the class and the emphasis is on learning the basics in a fun and safe way, whilst retaining the spirit of the dance.

No experience necessary. The class is suitable for those who’ve never danced before and also for those who want to build on the basics. Some of the class members have been coming for some time now, and look on the evening as a social event. Anyone who is 16 or over can attend – our eldest member is a fit 75 year old! For those attending the class no partner is necessary. Wear flat, comfortable shoes and loose clothing to keep cool.

It is also possible to pay by the week for this class:
Members: £6/£3 concession
Non-members £7/£4 concession

There will be occasional live music from Ceilidh Caleerie, the Scots Music Group’s ceilidh band, during the term. Click on the first picture below to see a short video of the band paying for a Dashing White Sergeant at the Ceilidh Dance class in November 2007

Click To Play

Dance - Scottish Step Dance - Absolute Beginner

Whether you’ve never step danced before or want to refresh your memory, this class will start from the basics and take you through to learning steps and rhythms along with the music.
Wear hard soled shoes that make a good clatter (no taps or segs please)

Drumming - Absolute Beginner

Learn skills and techniques that will build a great foundation to progress with any drumming style. The class will work on drum pads and work on snare drum rudiments. The class will join with the intermediate group for the 2nd half of the class

Fiddle - Absolute Beginner (6.05pm)

Learn basic fingering and bowing techniques, holding the instrument, getting a good sound, some basic music theory, and get a feel for Scottish music

Click on the picture below to hear a recording of a typical tune that might be taught in an absolute beginners level class

Fiddle - Absolute Beginner (7.35pm)

Learn basic fingering and bowing techniques, holding the instrument, getting a good sound, some basic music theory, and get a feel for Scottish music

Click on the picture below to hear a recording of a typical tune that might be taught in an absolute beginners level class

Fiddle - Absolute Beginner (January)

Learn basic fingering and bowing techniques, holding the instrument, getting a good sound, some basic music theory, and get a feel for Scottish music

Guitar - Absolute Beginner

Learn the basics of playing the acoustic guitar: chords, strumming patterns and basic picking

Mandolin - Absolute Beginner

In this class you’ll learn the basics of the mandolin from the very beginning, and begin to learn a few tunes. Everyone will be treated as though they’re picking up an an instrument for the first time, even if you have a little experience. You’ll get to grips with techniques and equipment, and start to build a repertoire.

You should have a mandolin to bring to the class, and for the first few weeks your tutor will tune it at the start of the class.

The tutor, Nigel Gatherer, has many years experience of teaching mandolin at all levels, and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Email Nigel

Moothie (and Melodeon) - Absolute Beginner

Nearly every house has one in a drawer somewhere. Learn to play pipe tunes, dance and session tunes on the mouth organ

Tuition is based on the 10-hole blues harp type of moothie in the key of ‘C’. Melodeon players are also welcome to come along to join this class (melodeons should preferably be in the key of C)

Pipes - Chanter - Absolute Beginner

The place to start if you have ambitions to play the Highland pipes or smallpipes. The class will look at the bagpipe scale, basic embellishments and some simple tunes

Song - Absolute Beginner

Come and sing together in a friendly group. Easy steps into singing a variety of songs.

Whistle - Absolute Beginner

Learn to play the penny whistle at a gentle encouraging pace. Build up a repertoire of popular tunes. Suitable for whistles in the key of D