Nestled in the heart of Australia’s most Irish village, Koroit, the Lake School of Celtic Music, Song and Dance has become a beloved tradition.
This family-friendly event, now an annual highlight, transforms the picturesque Victorian village into a vibrant hub of music and culture. It’s a celebration of all things Celtic, from music and song to dance and art.
The Lake School was born from a dream and a desire to immerse in Celtic traditions. In 1999, Koroit residents Felix and Christine Meagher, and Val Cookson, had a vision of taking their children to the Willie Clancy Summer School in Ireland, Ireland’s largest traditional music summer school with daily classes taught by experts in Irish music and dance.
However, Felix, Christine and Val soon realised it was financially out of reach. That’s when Jamie McKew, Director of the Port Fairy Folk Festival, had a brilliant idea: “Why don’t you have it here?”
They successfully secured funding and the inaugural Lake School was held. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Lake School has blossomed into an event that welcomes approximately 500 people each year. The school is a not-for-profit, registered community organisation, reinvesting any profits back into the event’s development.
The entire village of Koroit becomes involved in this cultural experience. Local businesses, venues, and residents get on board to make the Lake School a memorable experience. It’s a true community effort, and that’s what makes the event so special.
The Lake School in 2024 promises workshops, seisiúns, and concerts.
The students will find themselves in the midst of the festivities, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Koroit. It’s a chance to immerse in the rich culture, share in the craic, and make memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re an experienced musician or a beginner looking to learn, the Lake School welcomes all.
Lake School takes place from January 2nd to 7th, 2024. Tickets are now on sale here.
For enquiries, email felix@bushwahzee.com
2024 classes
•Instruments: Fiddle, cello, whis- tle, flute, uilleann pipes, guitar, DADGAD guitar, ukulele, mandolin, five-string banjo, concertina, piano accordion, harp, harmonica and bodhrán.
•There will also be dance, singing, songwriting, pub singers, Irish language, Kids Program, Youth Program with renowned film maker Ray Argall, Art Shed, poetry, Vintage Beginners, PA workshop, Calm By The Lake, and James Joyce Reading Group with Jeremy Meagher.
•Musical highlights include: Slow Session with Mark and Lisa McDonnell, Irish music with Jody Moran, trad sessions outside Mickey Bourke’s Pub, Louey’s Blues Session, Banjo Pick, Youth Session, Gospel Singalong, Feature Concert with the Melbourne Céilí Band, Blackboard Concert with Corey and Kym, and Op Shop Céilí.
*This article was first published in the December 2023 edition of Anglo&Celtic magazine
Anglo&Celtic 