Dive into Sean nós dancing: Learn, Improvise, and Connect with Irish Tradition

Discover the art of Sean nós dancing

Sean nós dancing is a unique style of traditional Irish dance, known for its freedom, rhythm, and personal expression. Unlike competitive Irish step dance, sean nós emphasizes improvisation and musicality, allowing dancers to connect deeply with the music and tradition.

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Irish dance beyond the usual steps, Dive into Sean Nós Dancing is the perfect journey for you.

About me: Tereza Bernardová, Irish Dance Teacher

Hi, I’m Tereza Bernardová, a dancer and teacher specializing in Irish dance styles, including sean nós. I’m not Irish, but Irish culture has inspired and fascinated me for over 25 years. I studied, lived, and performed in Ireland, learning from master dancers and immersing myself in the music and tradition.

I have performed in shows like Rhythm of the Dance, Ragús, and Pulses of Tradition. You may also know me from the third serie of TG4 competitin An Jig Gig, where I reached the second place in the finals, or from the All Ireland Fleadh in Cavan in 2010 where I also placed second. I hold an MA in Traditional Irish Dance Performance from the University of Limerick.

What makes Sean nós dancing special

Sean nós dancing is about freedom, rhythm, and personal style. Each dancer brings a unique interpretation to the music, yet all are connected by tradition. Unlike structured step dancing, sean nós allows improvisation and encourages dancers to respond to the music in the moment.

Traditionally, sean nós was passed down within families and communities. Today, it’s more accessible through workshops, summer schools, online tutorials, and dance courses—yet the essence remains the same: connecting with music and expressing yourself authentically.

My teaching method: Basics, Improvisation, and Personal style

In my sean nós dance courses, students learn two foundational steps: Connemara and Shuffle. From there, we explore countless rhythmic variations and improvisational exercises.

I guide dancers to:

• Connect movement with music and rhythm

• Develop personal style while respecting tradition

• Experiment and improvise in a playful, safe environment

• Focus on quality, musicality, and fluidity, not just step quantity

Think of my classes as a laboratory or playground, where simple steps lead to magical, expressive dance moments.

Why less is more in sean nós

Many dancers believe they need an extensive repertoire of steps to perform sean nós well. From my experience, authenticity and connection to music matter more. Watching masters like the Devane family, Padraic Ó hOibicín and others taught me that fluidity, rhythm, and the beauty of tradition are what make sean nós truly special.

Even with just a few steps, dancers can create rich, expressive performances that honor Irish music and culture.

Join the Dive into Sean nós dancing

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, my studio and online sean nós dancing courses offer a path to explore, improvise, and connect deeply with Irish tradition.

Learn to:

• Understand the music and rhythm

• Express your own style

• Enjoy the freedom and joy of sean nós dancing

Step into the world of Sean nós dancing and discover the beauty, simplicity, and depth of traditional Irish dance.