Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2025
Sráid na Cathrach, Co. an Chláir, 5ú Iúil - 13ú Iúil.
The 53rd Willie Clancy Summer School, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, Ireland.
Saturday 5th July to Sunday 13th July, 2025.
Welcome to the official website of Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy, The Willie Clancy Summer School, a major traditional Irish music, song and dance event held annually in Miltown Malbay, County Clare, Ireland with instrument and dance classes, lectures, workshops, recitals and céilithe all through the week.
​Online registration is now open, please go to the
Online Registration page.
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Organising Committee:
Harry Hughes (Administrator) tel. 086 877 3747
Éamon McGivney tel. 065 708 7417 or 087 950 0006
Séamus Ó Rócháin tel. 087 926 4256
Deirdre Comber tel. 087-673 5172
and the coordinators of classes/workshops and venue managers.
Please direct all enquiries to: scoilwclancy73@gmail.com
Please do not send queries to the summer school's Facebook, Instagram or Twitter/X accounts.​
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​Accommodation contact: Maureen Kilduff 089-232 0498 email: kilduffmg@gmail.com​
You can download the accommodation list here
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The Willie Clancy Summer School is an Irish registered charity.
To read or download the School's Child Welfare and Safeguarding Policy please click here.
​For a list of the Summer School's sponsors, benefactors and partners
please visit the About page.
Read Music The Trad Way workshop
This pioneering course, developed and conducted by Dr Liz Doherty, is designed for traditional musicians and primary school teachers. It is offered in partnership with I Teach Trad, certified by the Royal Irish Academy of Music, and recognised by the Dept.of Education for EPV purposes. The course will be held at St. Joseph's Secondary School, Spanish Point, from 10:00am-2:30pm, Monday 7th to Saturday 12th July. Sign up now at readmusicthetradway.com For more information contact liz@iteachtrad.com.
Timmy O'Connor (1935-2024)
A Legend of Sliabh Luachra - tribute by Pat Fleming.
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I am delighted to pay tribute to my lifelong friend and musical partner, Timmy O’Connor of Toureendarby, Newmarket, Co. Cork. Timmy was more than a master accordion player; he was the heartbeat of the Sliabh Luachra tradition, a man whose music and spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.
Timmy’s compositions will live on forever, immortalising his genius and passion for music. Each tune he crafted carries the essence of Sliabh Luachra—its rich history, its heartfelt joy, and its quiet beauty. His music wasn’t just a part of him; it was a gift he shared with the world, a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
But Timmy’s impact wasn’t limited to his incredible talent. His smile could light up an entire room, a beacon of warmth that instantly made you feel at home. His presence brought life and energy to every session, every gathering, and every corner of the world where his music was played. He had a unique ability to make people feel seen, welcomed, and cherished.
Timmy’s generosity knew no bounds. He loved to share his music, not as something to be admired from a distance but as an invitation to join in. His encouragement was unwavering, inspiring countless musicians to pick up their instruments and play. Whether you were a seasoned player or a nervous beginner, Timmy had a way of making you believe in yourself. He lifted you up with his words, his music, and his unwavering support, always reminding you that the joy of playing was what mattered most.
His deep connection to the Sliabh Luachra tradition, his unmatched talent, and his selfless spirit have left an indelible mark on the world of Irish music. But beyond all that, Timmy was a dear friend. A man of kindness, humility, and humour, he made life richer for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. Timmy’s music, his smile, and his unwavering generosity will live on in every tune played, every session shared, and every heart he touched.
Rest in peace, Timmy. You were, and always will be, a light in our lives, a true legend, and a cherished friend. The world is brighter for having known you—and the music you gave us will keep your spirit alive forever.
Timmy O'Connor, SSWC 2006
Photo: Tony Kearns.
Pat Fleming, Timmy O'Connor and Steve Cooney.
The University of Limerick’s BLAS International Summer School of Irish Traditional Music has joined forces with Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy to promote deeper understanding and appreciation of Irish Traditional music. Click here for more information.
Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy have had a long association with the Irish Traditional Music Archive whose ITMA Field Recording team are in attendance every year to record all official events for the archive.