About the Lucan School of Music

Established in 2006, the Lucan School of Music is based in Coláiste Phádraig CBS, Roselawn, Lucan, Co. Dublin.

The school has a student-centered approach to teaching music, always tailoring the lessons to the age, background, skill level and musical taste of the student in the class. We currently have over 500 students attending classes at the school each week.

All ages and skill levels are welcome; from pre-school children to retired adults, from total beginner to advanced levels.  Whether the individual wants to focus on grade exams or learning for fun in a variety of styles we can match them with a suitable teacher for their needs.

Our teachers are highly qualified, friendly and passionate about music.  Our goal is to foster good musicianship, build confidence, and pass on a love for music to our students.  Each teacher is Garda Vetted.

Video Introduction to the Lucan School of Music

This video showcases some of what we do at the school and features some of our classes, school concerts, chamber orchestra and singing group.

Recorded and edited at the Lucan School of Music Summer Concerts 2016 by AK Photography. Music composed and recorded by Dominic Dixon and performed by Lucan School of Music teachers. With thanks Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan, and all of the teachers, students and parents who were involved in this project.

AM Arts on Liffey Sound 96.4FM meets the Lucan School of Music

Amanda and Micháel meet Susan Callaghan, Director of the Lucan School of Music. The show includes a chat about the Lucan School of Music, who we are and what we do.  Featuring performances from two of Susan’s guitar students, Jason and Aiso.

Lucan School of Music Celebrates 10 Years!

Sept 2016

‘The last 10 years have been challenging, but very rewarding.  The support from parents and teachers, as well as the management / teachers / staff at Coláiste Phádraig has been overwhelming.
We teach all ages, but when reflecting on my time running Lucan School of Music, what strikes me is the progression of the children that have grown up coming to us.  It has been amazing to see kids progress from the Introduction to Music on to their instrument.  Many of our younger students have gone on to study music in third level.  This year I have had job applications from students that came to us as beginners, and have now got third level music qualifications!
The most rewarding thing is when a students come out of their lessons with a smile and can enjoy their practice at home or share music with family and friends, at any age and any level.  It’s not always about exams, but whatever personal goal the student has, and the ability to really enjoy and appreciate music.’

– Susan Callaghan, Director

Exam Boards

While it is not compulsory to sit exams in instrument or theory at the Lucan School of Music it is an option.  Exams can be a opportunity to measure progress, focus on technique, and give motivation to practice. The decision is between the student and their teacher and parents.

Our teachers are familiar with many exam boards including:

  • Royal Irish Academy of Music (We have been hosting these exams on site since 2012)
  • Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music
  • London College of Music
  • Trinity College London
  • Trinity Rock and Pop (We have been hosting these exams on site since 2016)
  • Trinity Guildhall
  • Rock School
  • Registry of Guitar Tutors
  • Junior and Leaving Certificate music (practical and theory)

If you require something different just ask!

History of the Lucan School of Music

Susan Callaghan BA is the Director of the Lucan School of Music. Susan received a FETAC Level 2 award in Music Technology at Kylemore College; and BTECH Higher National Diploma in Sound Operations and Production and an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Media Production and Management (Ballyfermot College of Further Education).  In recent years Susan has participated in the Kodály Society of Ireland summer course, and completed International Summer School for Kodály-based Music Pedagogy in the Kodály Institute of the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music in Kecskemét, Hungary.

Growing up in Lucan, Susan played the flute in the Lucan Concert Band for over 10 years.  She has played guitar since 1993 and has taught guitar since 1999. As a songwriter / singer / guitarist Susan has worked with bands in a variety of styles playing live and recording. Currently Susan plays guitar with the Spook of the Thirteenth Lock’s Electric Guitar Orchestra as well as working on her own original music.  Susan is Musical Director of four community choirs, two of which are with the organisation Music Matters in particular working with singers of all abilities who have intellectual disabilities / restricted mobility.

During her third level education Susan taught beginners guitar from her home in Lucan, and the demand for her services grew consistently over the years. Her enjoyment of teaching and the positive feedback she received from students and parents, as well as their requests for classes in other instruments for family and friends, led to her decision to start a music school in the Lucan area. Thanks to the help of Coláiste Phádraig’s principal at the time, Brian Murtagh, the Lucan School of Music is located at the CBS in Lucan.  We are very lucky to have the use of the secondary school’s facilities, and with thanks to Brian Murtagh, current principal Tony Brady, and the Board of Management we have been very happy there since September 2006.

Location:

You will find us in the classrooms of Coláiste Phádraig CBS secondary school, Roselawn, Lucan, Co. Dublin.

You will find us in the classrooms of Coláiste Phádraig CBS secondary school, Roselawn, Lucan, Co. Dublin.

Testimonials

Really enjoyed guitar lessons here, well organised classes with lessons tailored to myself and my friends. We got to learn the music we wanted to play and progressed by learning scales and more difficult chords as the weeks went by. Would highly recommend the school to anyone with an interest in learning a new instrument or anyone wanting to improve their skills!

This is a brilliant school of music. My son attends for guitar lessons and the attention and instruction he receives is second to none. His skills have improved so much in the past year it’s unbelievable. I would have no hesitation in recommending Lucan School of Music to anyone who wants their child to excell in their field of music.

My son has been taking piano and guitar lessons at the school for the past eight years. He is blessed with two incredibly gifted teachers who have inspired and motivated him to reach and excel beyond his potential. His passion for music has flourished under their expertise and he has acquired a lovely technique and mastery of both instruments. I highly recommend the tuition at the Lucan School of Music.

I attended a course of drum lessons as an adult beginner with Brian at the Lucan School of Music. Excellent tuition and tailored to my level and interest. Would highly recommend it.