Discover Monaghan Masterclasses, a collection of unique hands-on experiences led by local experts, makers and craftspeople. Perfect for a day trip from Dublin or Belfast, or as part of a relaxing Monaghan getaway.
Jiving Masterclass , with Damien West
Looking for jiving classes in Monaghan? Jivin’ Country’s Damien West, together with his dance partner, Katie, will get you up to speed in no time! Between them, the duo has won a raft of competitions. They also have switched across to the judges table, as well as teaching regular group classes and offering one-on-one jive tuition.
About Damien
Damien has been jiving for 12+ years and teaching people to jive for over six, from beginners to those looking to sharpen their moves. As well as jive, Damien teaches line dancing, foxtrot, waltz and quickstep. Together with dance partner, Katie, Damien is patient and understanding, meeting students at their own pace in invested in seeing them succeed.
What to expect from a masterclass with Damien
You can expect one-on-one attention, even in a group class, as Damien appreciates that not everybody learns in the same way and at the same pace. He is careful to ensure the necessary individual support is there for everybody, if needed, so that your dance skills not only improve but that each session is thoroughly enjoyable, too.
Dancing & Country Music Festivals in Monaghan
Monaghan and Castleblayney has a proud musical heritage, with Castleblayney in particular laying claim to being Ireland’s answer to Nashville. Home to Big Tom and the Mainliners and once the epicentre of the showband scene, the dancing scene here continues to thrive, with all ages taking part in dance sessions.
Show off you skills at one of the County’s numerous festivals. Dates for your diary in 2026 include the Monaghan Town Country Music Festival , 9th-12th July; the Castleblayney Music Festival, August Bank Holiday weekend. Meanwhile, Countryfest takes place in Inniskeen in and around early May. Keep an eye on the ‘Festivals and Events’ page for details of upcoming festivals in Monaghan.
The Practicalities
Group classes take place in Watters Old Coach Inn in Castleblayney every Tuesday at 7.30pm – all levels welcome and no advanced booking is required. The line dancing session then kicks in from 8.30pm.
Damien and Katie are also available to teach private, individual lessons.
Also in Castleblayney
Pay homage to the musical greats of Castleblayney at the Music Wall of Fame. The Big Tom memorial statue is currently positioned by the Market House, though it is expected that he will be temporarily re-housed when restoration works begin on the building (later in 2026).
Big Tom’s homeplace of Oram, about 5km away, pays tribute to its most famous son with a tranquil memorial garden, which is a must-visit for fans.
Make a Stay of It
There is a choice of excellent self-catering accommodation in Castleblayney from the sympathetically restored Muckno Lodge, to The Hillcrest, walking distance in to town. Just outside Castleblayney in the townland of Doohamlet is the luxurious Drift Farmhouse, which boasts outdoor hot-tub and indoor lap-pool, among other high-end amenities.