Department of Orchestral Studies

Head of Department Dr Cliona Doris

email: cliona.doris@dit.ie
phone: + 353 (0)1 402 3597

The Department of Orchestral Studies provides tuition in strings, wind, brass, and percussion.  In common with the Vocal and Keyboard departments, we cater for primary, secondary and third-level part-time and whole-time students on certificate and degree programmes (both undergraduate and postgraduate). The department also encompasses the study of Irish Traditional Music at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and Jazz at postgraduate level.  We have at our disposal a whole-time member of staff trained in Alexander Technique.

We are convinced that the health of an orchestral department is measured not only by the quality of individual teaching but also in its ensembles, and we make every effort to involve all students in ensemble playing at the appropriate level. Ensembles include the DIT Symphony Orchestra, the DIT Intermediate Orchestra, DIT Junior Orchestra and Preliminary String Group, DIT Wind Ensemble, DIT Concert Band, DIT Junior Band, Irish Traditional Music Ensemble, DIT Big Band.  Chamber Music is also encouraged at all levels, and the department is fortunate that this aspect of the programme is led by the internationally renowned, RTÉ Vanbrugh Quartet.

Over the years an instrument bank has been established and added to frequently. These instruments are made available to talented students for a limited period of time.

In addition to individual and group lessons, students are entered for examinations, competitions, and are encouraged to perform in concerts both in-house and at prestigious venues such as the National Concert Hall.