Do you have two (or three) favorite Irish traditional music festivals that occur within three or maybe four weeks of each other during the off-season? What would they be?

I'm planning a trip to Ireland and considering going during the off season. That would cut into my income (as a substitute teacher) but it might be well worth it to avoid the crush of tourists if I could attend several good quality festivals. I'm a sean nos singer with, for a Yank, fairly extensive experience in singing and collecting songs agus le cupla focal. I'd be looking for a good bit of singing, perhaps singing-only sessions, but lots of sessions at any rate, not just performances.

Or should I just go with the crush and attend the Willie Week?

And are there any traditional music schools during the off season?

Thanks for any info.

Cheers,

David