Welcome back to The Irish Snug! In this episode, host Tim Grant sits down with his cousin, the incredible Dawn Doherty. From being an All-Ireland tin whistle champion to her current role as a master music therapist, Dawn’s journey is a masterclass in keeping Irish culture alive and thriving in the modern world.

Born in NYC and raised in Castlebar, County Mayo, Dawn shares her unique perspective on the "bridge" between Ireland and New York. We dive deep into:

The Healing Power of Trad: Dawn’s work using Irish music to unlock memories for dementia patients and providing a vital outlet for children with autism at the Aisling Irish Community Center.
The Art of Teaching: From the "Music Munchkins" (ages 3–4) to the McLean Avenue Adult Singing Club, Dawn breaks down her philosophy on mentoring the next generation of musicians.
The Road to the Fleadh: Why song selection is everything in competition and how she prepares her students for the world stage at the Fleadh Cheoil.
The Gaeilge Revival: The modern "spark" in the Irish language and the importance of teaching Gaeilge in a fun, accessible way.

Whether you’re a musician, a fan of Irish history, or just looking for a bit of "craic," this episode is for you.

🎓 TEACHER’S SPOTLIGHT: DAWN DOHERTY
Dawn is a pillar of the New York-Irish music scene, offering a wide range of programs for all ages and abilities:
For Kids: Tin whistle, singing, and "Music Munchkins" classes at the Aisling Center.
For Adults: Private online whistle lessons and the popular McLean Avenue Adult Singing Club.
Specialized Therapy: Private music therapy sessions for elderly patients and scholarship-based programs for children with special needs.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Dawn Doherty’s Official Website: https://dawndohertymusic.com (For music lessons, music therapy inquiries, and performance dates).
The Aisling Irish Community Center: https://aislingcenter.org/
Kneecap (Amhrán Na Scadán): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=323QYC9XHY0

🎵 RECOMMENDED LISTENING:
Dolores Keane: The Voice of Ireland
Seán Keane: Traditional Master

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