Back to School, Back to the Beat
The start of the school year always brings a mix of excitement, nerves, and fresh energy. Students return after the summer full of chatter, teachers are ready with new plans, and everyone is eager to get back into a rhythm. At Bodhrán Buzz, we know there’s no better way to channel that buzz than with a drum in hand. Our school workshops bring music, teamwork, and fun straight into the classroom, and they’re guaranteed to get the year off to a flying start.
How Our Workshops Work
Our Little Buzzer bodhrán workshops are designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children of all ages. Whether it’s primary school pupils discovering rhythm for the first time, or older students looking for a hands-on break from the books, the workshops create an environment that’s both positive and empowering.
Each session is built around the three main strands of the music curriculum:
Listening & Responding – through fun games, children learn the importance of listening to each other, responding in time, and finding their place within a group rhythm.
Performing – group performance helps build confidence and teamwork, while optional solo moments allow willing students to shine. No child is ever put under pressure inspiration and enjoyment come first.
Composing – students create short rhythmic segments which are then layered together to form their very own unique groove.
Workshops can take many forms. One-day sessions introduce children to the bodhrán’s history, from traditional craft to modern drum-making, while also teaching the basics of holding the drum, using the stick, and playing rhythms. Longer-term courses dive deeper, covering everything from rhythms and scales to bodhrán maintenance, stick-making, and even playing alongside a live musician. Courses can also end with a performance for teachers and parents, a brilliant way to celebrate the children’s progress.
The Benefits Go Beyond Music
Drumming isn’t just fun, it’s also a powerful developmental tool. A bodhrán circle naturally teaches skills like:
Mutual respect and cooperation
Listening and coordination
Perseverance and self-discipline
Confidence and mental agility
Workshops provide a refreshing break from regular classroom routines, giving children the chance to learn in a hands-on, playful way. The sessions encourage movement, teamwork, and creativity, while also giving every student the chance to feel included. For teachers, it’s an easy-to-host activity that slots neatly into school life, while leaving a lasting impact on pupils.
What Schools Are Saying
Don’t just take our word for it. Karen Armitage, Director of Music at St. Andrew’s College Junior School, describes Robbie’s workshops as:
“Fun, modern and high energy… Robbie has a fantastic ability to relate to all ages of children and inspires them to follow his direction and work hard while really enjoying his classes. He is always extremely professional, and I would have no hesitation in recommending him as both a teacher and an amazing musician.”
Feedback like this reflects what we see in every classroom, smiles, laughter, and children buzzing with a sense of achievement and connection.
Bring the Buzz to Your School
Whether it’s a once-off workshop or a full-term course, Bodhrán Buzz makes it simple to organise, easy to run, and unforgettable for the children.
Get in touch today to book a workshop and kick off the new school year with rhythm, creativity, and plenty of buzz.