Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle, the Gaelic language and culture centre on Islay this week launches a summer programme of short courses in Gaelic language and music. Expertly run courses will offer a series of Gaelic language at all levels, plus fiddle and clàrsach from 28 June right through to 4 August. The very popular Ùlpan courses will run at three different levels: 1-12, 13-24 and 25-36. Ùlpan is a fast and effective way to learn a language. It has been used to great effect in Israel, where it originated, and in Wales. With Ùlpan, speaking comes first, and reading and writing follow. More experienced learners can continue their progress though an Upper Intermediate/Advanced course. A special attraction in the summer programme is the reciprocal study opportunity between Gaelic and Gaeilge speakers. The proximity of Islay to Northern Ireland (only 18 miles by sea) has created similarities common to both languages - Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaeilge - so these fascinating languages can be shared and learned in special courses. These courses can all be enhanced by an excellent Gaelic library at ICCI. This summer’s 3-day traditional music courses will be in fiddle and clàrsach, led by expert tutors who will encourage students of all ability levels to develop their skills. In a beautiful seashore setting at Gartnatra near Bowmore, ICCI opened in 2002 and the centre now offers teaching rooms, a library, broadcasting room, conference facility, wedding venue, exhibition space, childcare facility and computer room. Please contact 00 +44 (0)1496 810818 or fios@ile.ac.uk for further details, costs and booking form.