I had the great pleasure of sitting down for a chat with Matt Cranitch, who is perhaps most well-known in the States for his Irish Fiddle method book as well as live and online workshops he has offered. This interview is your opportunity to "take a class" with Matt and hear a mix of his story, his teaching approaches, and his current projects in the summer of 2026.

Matt's website

ITMA Padraig O' Keeffe Collection

Colleen Freeman playing her ancestor Julia Clifford's Stroh Fiddle

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With the recent release of her 3rd tune collection, Liz Carroll shares the evolution of her tune books, insights on Irish music, and how she's finding her lilt these days. This conversation covers her creative process, the importance of listening and experimentation, and tips for musicians at all levels.

Get your copy of Collected III here!

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Mary Vanorny shares her journey from classical training to Irish fiddling, her innovative approach to teaching through her books, and the importance of community and style in learning Irish music.

Learn more about Mary and purchase her book collection here:

• https://www.fiddlermary.com/
• https://www.learningfiddlewithirishmusic.com

Want to support the Find Your Lilt podcast and learn some new tunes by ear? Become a Tune Library member!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Suzuki Method and Irish Fiddling

03:10 Creating Resources for Young Musicians

05:59 The Importance of Listening and Training in Music

08:56 The Transition from Classical to Irish Fiddling

11:59 Understanding Songs vs. Tunes in Irish Music

14:58 Teaching Approaches for Different Age Groups

17:49 The Role of Bowing Techniques in Fiddling

21:03 Personal Journey in Fiddling and Learning from Mentors

33:49 Navigating the Challenges of Teaching Music

34:50 The Impact of Encouraging Teachers

35:56 Bridging Classical and Irish Music

36:58 The Importance of Skill Development

39:25 Teaching Techniques and Learning by Ear

41:21 The Role of Sheet Music in Learning

43:03 Understanding Irish Music's Unique Characteristics

45:57 The Journey of Learning Fiddle Techniques

48:25 Creating a Community Through Music

50:43 The Importance of Consistent Practice

52:52 Exploring Cape Breton and Irish Music

56:37 Building Connections Through Tunes

01:00:18 The Role of Resources in Music Education