The Centre for Irish Studies at NUI Galway has announced details of a new Diploma in Irish Music Studies that will trace the progress of Irish music from the kitchens of rural Ireland to concert halls and festivals worldwide, from Madagascar to Mali, from Miltown Malbay to Memphis.

The course will look at the journey of Irish music to the West Indies and on to the Ozark and Appalachian regions of North America, and its connections with black-face minstrelsy, old-time, bluegrass and country music before tracking its journey home again, disguised as country and western, rockabilly, folk, and rock and roll.

The diploma will also investigate the connection between music and poetry in Ireland from the eighteenth century through to the work of contemporary poets such as Thomas Kinsella, Seamus Heaney, Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill and Cathal Ó Searcaigh.

The course will be taught by renowned author, broadcaster, and music historian, PJ Curtis, by Méabh Ní Fhuartháin, who has previously taught at Brown University, Boston College, and UCC, and Seán Crosson, who has recently completed a groundbreaking study of the relationship between Irish poetry and traditional music. The Diploma in Irish Music Studies is specially designed for mature students and would be suitable for anyone considering further studies in modern Irish music, literature and culture and for those seeking employment in cultural tourism and the heritage industry. This is a two-year, part-time programme, with classes to be held one evening per week during term time.

Closing date for applications is 1st August 2006. For further details, contact Samantha Williams at 091 492051 or email irishstudies@nuigalway.ie