Kieran Szifris offers school performances, workshops and ceilidhs. If you want to fund raise or have an end of term with an extra special event just get in touch.

“Kieran Szifris’ Monster Ceilidh Band school workshops are wonderful. The children are fully engaged in something which gets their minds and bodies working while also encouraging collaboration. The impact on their musical knowledge, cultural heritage, teamwork and health is immense. It is truly cross curricular in its approach and ultimately makes them happier, more connected humans.” Jonathon Russell-Thompson, Preston Grange Primary School

Folk Music & Ceilidh Dance Workshops for Schools

Bring the rich musical traditions of the North East to life in your classroom with our dynamic workshops, led by professional folk musicians from the Monster Ceilidh Band and beyond. Kieran offers an authentic, high-energy experience that combines live folk music performance, ceilidh dance, and an exploration of regional musical history—perfect for inspiring students and enhancing their musical education.

Workshop Options & Pricing

🎵 1.5-Hour Session – £120
A lively introduction to North East folk music and ceilidh dancing, featuring a short performance and interactive group activities.

🎵 Half-Day Workshop (2-3 hours) – £350
Dive deeper into traditional music and dance, including live performances, ceilidh dance instruction, and group music-making.

🎵 Full-Day Workshop (5-6 hours) – £450
An immersive experience exploring the fiddle playing of James Hill, traditional Northumbrian dances, instrument exploration, and a final group performance.

Residencies

📅 1 Hour a Week for 6 Weeks – £570
This package includes one class per week with two musicians, giving students the opportunity to build skills and understanding over an extended period. Perfect for integrating folk music and dance into your curriculum or offering enrichment.

📅 1 Hour a Week for 12 Weeks – £1,080
For a more in-depth residency, enjoy 12 weekly sessions with two musicians, providing students with a deeper exploration of folk music, Northumbrian dance, and the cultural traditions of the region.

📅 1 Hour a Week for 30 Weeks (Ceilidh Band) – £2,550
This extended residency includes 30 weekly sessions with two musicians from Monster Ceilidh Band, offering students a complete experience in folk music and ceilidh dancing. The residency culminates in a live ceilidh band performance alongside the students, providing an unforgettable end-of-year celebration!

Discounts are available for multiple bookings, so the more sessions you book, the more you save!

What We Offer

Our workshops focus on the unique folk traditions of the North East, giving students the chance to:
🎻 Learn about the legendary fiddle playing of James Hill
💃 Explore traditional Northumbrian ceilidh dances
🎶 Experience live folk music with two professional musicians from Monster Ceilidh Band
📜 Discover the rich cultural history of North East music
🎉 Take part in a grand end-of-year performance with the Monster Ceilidh Band

📍 Available across the North East of England
🎶 Suitable for primary and secondary schools

For bookings and inquiries, get in touch!

Ceilidh Dance Workshops – Curriculum Alignment
A fun, interactive dance and music session that introduces children to traditional British folk music through ceilidh dancing. Perfectly suited to Key Stage 1 and 2 learners, these workshops develop musicality, movement, collaboration and cultural appreciation.

Curriculum Links Overview

• Music
• KS1: Listening, performing, rhythm
• KS2: Ensemble, memory, composition
• PE (Dance)
• KS1: Simple patterns, coordination
• KS2: Technique, group performance
• PSHE/SMSC
• KS1: Cultural awareness, teamwork
• KS2: Collaboration, self-confidence

Learning Outcomes

• Learn basic folk dance steps and patterns.
• Work in pairs and groups to perform simple dances.
• Recognise traditional instruments and musical structures.
• Gain confidence in movement and rhythm.
• Celebrate cultural traditions and teamwork.

Optional Extras

Workshops can be tailored to seasonal themes (Harvest, May Day) or enhanced with teacher follow-up materials, such as playlists or reflection activities.

Kieran Szifris – Traditional Folk & Ceilidh Workshops for Schools