Fiddler Noreen McManus on her leap back to education at DkIT
“I was born in New York. That's where I learned fiddle with the legendary Martin Mulhall. My family moved here in the 70s, and I've pretty much been playing traditional music ever since.”
A well‑known figure in the Louth music scene, Noreen McManus has spent decades teaching and promoting traditional music across the Northeast, including her work with the Oriel Traditional Orchestra and Comhaltas. Her fiddle has taken her around the world, from Norway and Brussels to the US and Zambia, where she was struck by the children’s rhythm and joy.
Finishing her leaving Cert at 17 and beginning work straight away in the ESB, Noreen had never had the opportunity to go to third level. With her children grown and time finally on her side, she decided to pursue something she had always wanted, a college degree.
“All my life lessons have led me to this really because this has always been something that I’ve wanted to do,” says Noreen, speaking about her decision to study the BA in Music and Performance Technologies at DkIT.
Her vast musical knowledge and teaching experience has been vital for her success in the course to date. The Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) pathway was an option for her, where her experience would let her jump ahead in her degree, but Noreen was determined to dive in to the full course and all it entailed.
Despite initial nerves around technology, Noreen has embraced new skills — from classical studies to Musico and digital notation — and enjoys the balance of lectures, performance, and ensemble work.
Although aspects like IT were initially challenging, Noreen is relishing all of the new opportunities.
“I've always wanted to do classical and never got the chance- I can’t believe the amount of stuff I'm learning,” Noreen exclaims. “Studying popular music, the History of Music and seeing how one genre relates to another is just fascinating.”
Harmony work is something she is looking forward to as she prepares to begin her second year, particularly being able to apply skills learned in year 1. The next three years are something that she is really looking forward to, and she can’t get enough of her new found love for learning. “Who knows, I might even go back for more education,” she laughs. “I think I’ve been bitten by the bug.”
Coming back to education at a later stage in life has been hugely beneficial to Noreen and it’s an experience she would recommend to anyone.
“Don’t be afraid. I had that moment of oh my God, can I really do this? The technology side worried me the most. But yes — you can absolutely do it. People are so supportive, so helpful, and so willing to do anything they can for you. So, take the step. Go for it.”
