“Rob Gandara is a veteran of hundreds of shows, festivals and music events. You will find him smiling and chatting with some of the world’s most notable pipers and woodwind players as well as interested novices who simply want to know what it’s all about.
Rob will be offering two free workshops on Saturday Nov. 8, 2025, 11:30 AM and 5:30 PM, at the Lions Hall in Yachats. 344 W. 4th St, just one block southwest of the Commons.
He will also have a vendor table at the festival if you want to come explore his products and visit.”
‘Dance Workshops’
Maldon Meehan has been an avid supporter of the Yachats Celtic Music Festival for years and is often the caller and instructor for our Sunday afternoon ceili, as she will be again this year.
She is offering two Irish dance workshops on Saturday Nov. 8, at 10 AM and 1 PM, at the Yachats Lions Hall, 344 W. 4th St, just one block southwest of the Commons.
https://maldonmeehan.com/maldon-meehan-biography
The 10 AM class is Irish Sean-nos dancing.
In this hands-on, foot-to-floor workshop, participants learn the fundamentals of sean-nós dancing: loose and low-to-the-ground rhythms, improvisational step patterns, and playful musicality. We’ll begin with simple movements—heel taps, shuffles, and toe drops—and gradually build toward dancing your own improvised steps in a small space, just as dancers did on the rounded tops of whiskey barrels or cottage half-doors. Expect laughter, creativity, and a deep connection to the pulse of live or recorded Irish music. No previous experience necessary—just bring your feet and curiosity. Footwork from this workshop can be used in your set dancing as well.
The class at 1PM will be Irish Set dancing.
Join her for the lively, social tradition of Irish set dancing—group dancing in square formations, rooted in French quadrilles and brought to life in Irish village halls. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to dance in time with partners and the music, learning the rhythm, footwork, and flow that make set dancing so joyful. Maldon will guide you through clear breakdowns of basic figures, partner connections, and full set run-throughs to live or recorded traditional music. No partner needed—dancers rotate and mix throughout, creating a warm and welcoming community where everyone is part of the set.
These classes will be for a fee of 15.00 each or 25.00 for both, payable at the door. Reservations are suggested.
You can reserve a spot by contacting Susan Spencer at ‘Bridie’s Irish Faire’ in Newport.
You can reach Susan at her store location:715 NW 3rd St. (Nye Beach)Newport OR 97365
541-574-9366Bridie’s is the sponsor for the dance classes as well as the ceili.Thank you Susan!
