Steve expands his music academy

It has been quite a journey for Steve Hulgraine since he first began teaching guitar at Kilcullen Community Centre over a decade ago. From those early days as Hult Guitar Academy to the successful launch of Born to Strum Music Academy in Crookstown Craft Village, Steve’s mission to bring music to the heart of South Kildare continues to hit all the right notes.

To meet growing demand, Steve has recently expanded the premises, doubling the school’s capacity with the addition of a second state-of-the-art studio. The expansion is not just about space; it is also about diversity in sound. Born to Strum is now one of the few schools in the region to offer professional harp lessons, led by Margaret Lawler, who recently returned from a successful St Patrick’s Day tour across the USA. The academy also features Margaret’s sister, Mary Lawler, whose teaching spans Irish fiddle, classical violin, and piano. 

For those looking to turn up the volume, Neil Foley joins the faculty as a lead electric guitar specialist and former student of the legendary Nicky Brennan. 

“The goal of the school is not only to help people master the art of music, but also to build the confidence of all our students, both young and old, and to allow them to play music with freedom, joy, and passion,” says Steve. “With Mary, Margaret, and Neil now on board, I’m excited for the future of the school and where we’re headed.”

With summer camps planned through the first three weeks of July, the academy continues to offer young musicians a welcoming place to learn, grow, and play together.

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