In Tune with Tradition - Perspectives on Session Etiquette in Irish Traditional Music

This episode of In Tune with Tradition was recorded in person in Miltown Malbay during Willie Clancy Week 2025, (shortly after the podcast was officially launched), where Clare fiddle player, teacher and broadcaster Joan Hanrahan joins Tara Connaghan for a warm, reflective conversation about what Irish traditional music sessions really are: shared spaces built on listening, trust, and people first. They talk through session etiquette, intergenerational learning, the role of repetition and repertoire, and why music can feel healing in moments of grief, joy, and everything in between.

Chapters

01:25 – What an Irish music session means to Joan

02:22 – First sessions in Garvey’s in Inagh and learning tunes by osmosis

04:55 – Why the intergenerational nature of Irish music matters

05:51 – Nobody knows it all

06:13 – Old tunes, repertoire and why quantity is not everything

07:24 – Advice for joining a session when you know nobody

08:25 – The natural high when a session really works

11:15 – People first, music second

12:27 – Music as a constant through grief, loss and life

14:18 – Friendships across the world and a connection with Cape Breton

17:13 – What happens when musicians truly gel

18:21 – Processing grief through music

20:05 – Writing tunes for Joan’s father and sister

24:48 – Why Joan likes playing tunes more than twice

26:21 – What blocks the flow of a good session

29:44 – Welcoming people without asking them to prove their worth

30:33 – Joan’s ideal session size and why sessions should inspire you

31:58 – Festival sessions, hospitality and keeping music human

35:18 – Ten ingredients of a successful session

38:12 – Old pubs, open fires, singers, dancers and good listeners

Resources:

The West Wind with Joan Hanrahan – Clare FM Joan’s long-running traditional Irish music and song programme on Clare FM.

Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy

Session Etiquette Questionnaire Share a question, challenge or joy from your own session experience for a future episode.

Support In Tune with Tradition Help support the recording, production and editing of the podcast.

In Tune with Tradition: The Private Session Experience

Join the Session Etiquette mailing list

Recorded and produced by Tara Connaghan and edited by Anita Alvarez Santos.

Recorded in person in Miltown Malbay during Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2025.

Fiddle player and teacher Jacqui Martin joins Tara Connaghan to talk about friendship, slow sessions, rhythm, seating, safe places to play and why Irish music sessions can feel like strange social experiments where anyone can walk in and change the whole evening.

Resources:

https://www.cobblestonepub.ie/cobblestone-backroom/balaclavas-session

Ceoltóir course - Ballyfermot

Clontarf Comhaltas CCE

Session Etiquette Questionnaire

Support the In Tune with Tradition podcast

In tune with Tradition: The Private Session Experience

This episode explores how music can regulate the nervous system, build belonging, and help people feel safe in communal playing spaces. Tara Connaghan is joined by Louise Kelly, a consultant music therapist from the North of Ireland, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of Resilient Rhythms, whose perspective connects traditional music with anxiety, confidence, and connection.

We discuss why some players sit on the periphery, why others play loudly or keep leaving and returning, and how those behaviours can be understood through fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses rather than judgment.

00:00 - Music as shared nervous system regulation

00:44 - Introduction to Louise Kelly and the episode’s focus

03:02 - Louise’s background in music therapy and why she speaks publicly about music’s power

04:32 - The TEDx selection process and the journey to speaking on stage

06:24 - Why music is a biological necessity, not just entertainment

07:46 - Sessions, teamwork, and rhythm as connection

09:01 - Growing up outside the Irish music tradition and feeling drawn in

10:55 - Discovering session etiquette through a therapist’s lens

12:49 - The nervous system’s job: keeping us safe

13:45 - Fight, flight, freeze, and fawn in session behaviour

15:05 - Loud playing as a possible fight response

16:33 - Playing louder after being ignored elsewhere

20:03 - Shy entry, fawning, and freeze in newcomers

21:00 - Humour and repeated movement as safety behaviours

22:25 - Watching body language and seat choice from the outside

23:39 - Why confrontation often pushes musicians toward flight

24:34 - Cultural identity, language, and why the tradition matters so deeply

25:08 - Louise rejoining beginner trad life through North Coast Antrim

26:43 - Practicing a session at home by recording and replaying it

28:26 - Therapy, music, and the value of repetition

29:44 - Confidence, anxiety, and finding a voice later in life

31:24 - Teenagers, music, and why young people live inside sound

32:28 - Why adults lose sight of music’s value

36:05 - What really stops newcomers is fear of getting it wrong

38:53 - How shame is learned through family and society

40:08 - School messages that damage confidence in music

41:16 - Everyone can participate without being “a trained singer”

42:06 - Walking in circles, staying on the periphery, and feeling safe first

43:19 - The sweet spot where musicians become one

44:17 - Coping strategies for anxiety and choosing music as support

46:20 - Breath work, self-awareness, and self-expression as regulation tools

48:08 - Session rules as a way to protect safety, not exclude people

49:28 - Mind-body awareness in music and in everyday life

50:44 - Music as mindfulness and being present in the moment

54:09 - Slow sessions as beginner-safe spaces and why they matter

57:47 - Session vibe, belonging, and why context changes everything

59:39 - Louise’s advice for listeners: be open, curious, and avoid perfectionism

61:34 - A memory of belonging in a school traditional group

63:48 - The tune that still moves Louise and why music stays personal

64:32 - Closing reflections on reopening a long-closed doorway

Resources:

Louise Kelly, TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTKezQB0A3E

https://resilientrhythms.co.uk/

https://www.sessionetiquette.com/questionnaire

In Tune with Tradition - Private Session Experience: https://www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat

In this episode of In Tune with Tradition, Tara Connaghan speaks with Donal O’Connor in Belfast ahead of Belfast Trad Festival and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

This conversation goes straight into one of the hardest parts of Irish session culture: expectations.

Donal talks about how different people arrive at a session wanting different things. Young musicians may want to play their new tunes. Adult learners and intermediate players may want the buzz of a big inclusive session. Older or more experienced musicians may hope for a smaller corner, strong repertoire, good listening, space, chat and musical connection.

The problems begin when all of those expectations land in the same room and are not spoken about.

Donal also talks about Belfast Trad Festival, the challenge of managing session trails, why master musicians need space to play too, how listening sessions can help, why song and dance matter, and why respect remains central to the whole thing.

This is a practical, thoughtful conversation about sessions as living social spaces: places where music, people, rooms, listeners, age, gender, alcohol, confidence, safety and expectation all meet.

Join Tara Connaghan as she reflects on a vibrant year of exploring Irish music sessions, session etiquette, and community connection via the In Tune with Tradition podcast.

This special episode features insights from musicians, educators, and session enthusiasts from around the world discussing what makes sessions meaningful and how to foster better experiences for all.

Guests: Dr. Michael Walsh, Michael Eskin, Lori Madden and Mimi Vidaver-Davis.

Transcript available on https://www.sessionetiquette.com/podcast

This episode is also available to watch on https://www.youtube.com/live/V6ItyDgg9y0

Resources

Celtic Back-Up for All Instruments by Chris Smith (book)

John Doyle Guitar on YouTube

Sheffield Folk Sessions Festival, UK

Dr. Michael Walsh

Michael Eskin

San Diego Comhaltas

Mimi Vidaver-Davis

Blue Ridge Irish Music School Virginia-based Irish music education

Plough and Stars pub

The Starry Plough pub

Slainte pub

TheSession.org - source of tunes, discussions, directory of sessions

TradRadar.ie - directory or sessions in Ireland

Shift.Irish - app to connect Irish people at home and abroad plus list of sessions / pubs

In Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experience

https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette

In Tune with Tradition / Session Etiquette website - https://www.sessionetiquette.com

Sign up to the In Tune with Tradition newsletter https://www.sessionetiquette.com/newsletter-signup

Intro music: Track 1: John Phadaí Chonchubhair’s jig - Derek McGinley & Tara Connaghan ‘Far Side of the Glen’ album (2011)

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Tara Connaghan speaks with Deirdre Scanlan, former singer with Irish music group, Solas. Deirdre is a passionate musician and educator, about the essence of Irish music, the importance of traditional singing, and the dynamics of music sessions. She shares her insights on emotional connections in music, the role of technology, and the challenges of teaching and learning in the musical community. They explore the expectations and realities of participating in music sessions, the significance of participation, and the balance between tradition and innovation. The discussion also touches on listener questions, providing valuable perspectives on navigating the world of Irish music.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deirdre Scanlan

01:50 The Essence of Irish Music Sessions

05:35 Understanding Traditional Singing

09:15 Emotional Connection in Music

12:51 Gender Perspectives in Music Expression

15:31 The Evolution of Tradition

17:14 Variations in Singing vs. Instrumental Performance

22:57 Teaching and Learning in Music

28:24 Navigating Music Sessions

30:46 Navigating Session Etiquette

33:39 Understanding Session Dynamics

36:15 The Role of Personal Experience in Sessions

38:24 Baggage and Expectations in Musical Spaces

40:48 Inclusivity and Participation in Sessions

44:26 The Pressure of Performance and Hosting

47:45 Diverse Motivations in Musical Sessions

51:20 Finding Value in Every Session

54:16 Session Behaviour and Respect

56:20 Exploring Session Dynamics and Imposter Syndrome

58:22 The Art of Participation in Musical Sessions

01:01:22 Navigating Social Expectations in Irish Music

01:04:01 Understanding Personal Motivations in Musical Engagement

01:06:56 Supporting Others in Musical Settings

01:09:47 Final Thoughts and Personal Connections to Music

Resources

In Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experience

https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette

In Tune with Tradition / Session Etiquette website - https://www.sessionetiquette.com

Sign up to the In Tune with Tradition newsletter https://www.sessionetiquette.com/newsletter-signup

Deirdre Scanlan

To read the transcript, please listen to the episode on www.sessionetiquette.com/podcast

This is the transcript Tara generates (not AI generated).

Transcript assistance was given by Darragh Ó hÉiligh.

Summary

Join Tara Connaghan as she chats with Four Men and a Dog bodhrán player, Gino Lupari. Explore the rich culture of Irish traditional music sessions, the importance of etiquette, and how to improve as a musician. Insights from a seasoned Irish musician sharing stories, tips, and the essence of session camaraderie.

Chapters

00:00 The Origins of Four Men and a Dog

03:42 The Heart of Irish Music Sessions

08:52 The Power of Community in Music

14:32 Navigating Session Etiquette

20:12 The Balance of Skill and Inclusion in Sessions

25:53 Introduction to Sketch City and Music Culture

26:41 The Importance of Listening in Music

29:18 Navigating Musical Expectations and Parental Influence

31:21 The Journey of Learning and Playing Music

35:04 Understanding the Tools of Music

39:13 Passing Down Musical Traditions

42:18 The Role of Dancers in Music

44:48 Teaching Adults in Music

48:44 The Rhythm of Music and Its Influence

50:40 Exploring the Dynamics of Music Sessions

52:59 The Journey of Learning and Practicing Music

54:45 Navigating the Social Structures of Music Sessions

58:22 The Importance of Confidence in Joining Sessions

01:03:01 The Role of Listeners in Music Sessions

Resources:

In Tune with Tradition / Session Etiquette website - https://www.sessionetiquette.com

http://www.fourmenandadog.net/

Sign up to the In Tune with Tradition newsletter https://www.sessionetiquette.com/newsletter-signup

www.sketchcity.co

In Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experience

https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette

To read the transcript, please listen to the episode on www.sessionetiquette.com/podcast

This is the transcript Tara generates (not AI generated).

Episode 17: Robert Sommer

Join Tara Connaghan as she interviews Robert Sommer, a newcomer to Irish traditional music, about his journey into sessions, the social and technical aspects of playing guitar, and how music can be a source of joy and connection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest background

01:22 What does an Irish session mean to Robert?

07:42 The moment Robert decided to pursue Irish music

11:34 Music as a source of joy and connection

15:34 Advice for beginners and newcomers

22:35 Overcoming nerves and self-consciousness

28:46 Technical tips: chords, tunings, and ornamentation

35:18 The importance of listening and contributing

42:02 Session etiquette and respecting the music

52:22 The community and cultural significance of Irish sessions

01:03:45 Final thoughts and Robert’s question for next guest

Resources:

www.sessionetiquette.com

www.sketchcity.co

In Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experience

https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette

The Irish Fest Kansas City - https://www.kcirishfest.com

keywords

Irish music, traditional sessions, guitar, fiddle, music journey, session etiquette, Irish culture, musical learning, community music, Irish festivals

Summary

Join Tara Connaghan for an in-depth conversation with Damien Mullane, a distinguished Irish accordion player from London. We explore session etiquette, the importance of inclusivity and handling mistakes.

Links

www.sessionetiquette.com

www.sketchcity.co

Chapters

00:00 The Essence of Irish Traditional Music Sessions

09:37 Engaging New Musicians and Session Etiquette

18:58 The Role of Mistakes in Music

28:08 Fostering a Positive Session Environment

34:23 Navigating Musical Etiquette in Sessions

36:08 The Dynamics of Playing with Friends

38:38 The Balance of Fun and Seriousness in Music

39:58 Embracing Mistakes and Humor in Performance

42:08 Understanding Session Traditions and Etiquette

45:41 The Role of Speed in Musical Sessions

49:37 Finding Balance Between Singers and Musicians

52:43 Identifying and Addressing Session Disruptions

58:35 Personal Growth Through Musical Expression

keywords

Irish traditional music, session etiquette, music community, improvisation, musical mistakes, inclusivity, session leadership, Irish culture, music education, live performance

Discover how Irish music sessions are more than just tunes, they're vibrant social gatherings that thrive on authenticity, politeness, and shared musical language. Join us as we explore the nuances of session etiquette, musical identity, and the magic of finding your voice within the community.

• The social fabric and etiquette of Irish music sessions
• Developing personal musical voice and confidence
• The cultural differences in music perception and participation

• Lexie Boatwright shares her journey of adapting to Irish musical nuances and social vibes
• Insight into how social connection and politeness shape session interactions
• The importance of self-awareness and authenticity for musicians
• The role of rhythm, dynamics, and personal style in Irish music
• The cultural contrast in perceptions of competition, performance, and self-promotion
• Practical advice on how to contribute meaningfully to sessions at any level
• Reflection on how musical and cultural identity influence learning and performing

00:00 - The social essence of Irish sessions and fitting in

00:27 - The importance of social vibe over technical skill

01:46 - How social and musical dynamics intertwine

03:46 - The role of caring and authenticity in sessions

05:13 - Building connections through social interaction

06:26 - Vulnerability and learning as an adult musician

07:42 - The impact of travel and access on learning Irish music

09:02 - Brain science and learning Irish music

10:48 - The stages of developing fluency and confidence

12:48 - The significance of rhythm, swing, and phrasing

15:01 - The analogy of storytelling and fluency in music

16:44 - Recognising Irish musical vernacular and accents

17:34 - The importance of organising and sharing musical vocabulary

18:56 - The beauty in imperfection and being yourself in sessions

21:07 - Playing your unique voice, the confidence to being your true self

23:40 - Cultural reflections on Irish versus American musical attitudes

26:10 - Session etiquette and politeness over social dominance

28:56 - How to navigate social cues and musical contributions

33:49 - Making space for different instruments and musical expressions

36:29 - The accessibility of Irish music and the importance of persistence

42:22 - The value of hunger, access, and community in learning

44:32 - The long-term approach to mastering Irish music

49:26 - Embracing mistakes and the non-perfection in performance

54:36 - The cultural lens on competition versus performance

57:23 - The role of festivals, competitions, and social mixing

62:34 - The importance of social interactions and playing together

66:29 - Finding your voice and the social-cultural context of Irish music

70:14 - Building confidence and sharing your music authentically

75:36 - Developing your musical voice through variation and exploration

79:26 - The significance of rhythm, dynamics, and ornamentation

83:08 - Contributing to the session beyond just playing tunes

86:38 - The social glue: belonging and community in Irish music

89:22 - Neuroscience of learning music and neurodiversity

93:43 - The relationship between classical and Irish traditional music

97:04 - Overcoming self-consciousness in hearing your own voice

99:52 - Recognising mistakes and the natural flow of performance

106:54 - The importance of intentionality and matching rhythm

111:58 - Dynamics, phrasing, and micro-dynamics in session playing

120:13 - Defining Irish music: features, patterns, and cultural identity

122:32 - The role of accompaniment and social harmony in sessions

126:51 - Final thoughts on authenticity, community, and musical self-acceptance

Resources & Links:

• The Consequences - Band Website
• In Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experience
• https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette

Produced, recorded & edited by Tara Connaghan and guest editor Anita Alvarez Santos