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This episode Éamon Ó Ciosáin talks with Tara about nerves, listening and the things musicians gradually learn by actually spending time in Irish music sessions. Éamon speaks openly about going blank when asked to start a tune, playing slightly above your comfort level and why nerves do not necessarily disappear with experience. Chapters01:35 – Returning to music and finding a regular session 03:29 – What does a genuine Irish music session mean? 04:22 – Does being paid change the session? 05:18 – When the best sessions happen by accident 06:01 – The highs and lows of sessions 07:12 – Finding the rhythmic sweet spot 08:19 – When speed starts running away 09:07 – Going blank when somebody asks you to start a tune 10:54 – Choosing tunes other people will know 13:09 – Why Tara does not want to play solo in a session 14:03 – Performing on stage versus playing with people 15:13 – Knowing when listening contributes more than playing 16:13 – Sessions that are open and sessions that are not 17:46 – Sometimes musicians simply want a conversation with their friends 19:04 – Advice for musicians beginning to join sessions 20:33 – How better musicians can pull your playing upwards 22:10 – Everybody gets nervous 23:49 – Phones, recordings and how they change the session 23:49 – Recording in sessions and being in the moment 25:06 – Tourist sessions and mic'd-up performances 26:03 – Receiving negative feedback in a session 27:24 – When somebody really does need to be asked to stop 29:19 – Do we need better language for difficult conversations? 30:51 – Is there a minimum level for joining a session? 31:50 – Different types and levels of sessions 32:53 – Why improver sessions can help 33:50 – Recreating session conditions at home 35:26 – What makes a successful session for Éamon? 37:30 – Music for comfort and inspiration 39:36 – Why house sessions feel different 41:00 – Where did the modern session come from? 42:20 – Sessions after COVID Mentioned in this episode: Patrick MacGill Festival Visit www.patrickmacgillfestival.ie for more details. Shortlisted for Awards Vote for In Tune with Tradition visit www.sessionetiquette.com/podcast to view voting links.

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. Chapters00:00 - 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. Main Topics:The social fabric and etiquette of Irish music sessionsDeveloping personal musical voice and confidenceThe cultural differences in music perception and participation In this episode:Lexie Boatwright shares her journey of adapting to Irish musical nuances and social vibesInsight into how social connection and politeness shape session interactionsThe importance of self-awareness and authenticity for musiciansThe role of rhythm, dynamics, and personal style in Irish musicThe cultural contrast in perceptions of competition, performance, and self-promotionPractical advice on how to contribute meaningfully to sessions at any levelReflection on how musical and cultural identity influence learning and performing Timestamps: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 WebsiteIn Tune With Tradition - Private Session Experiencehttps://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette Produced, recorded & edited by Tara Connaghan and guest editor Anita Alvarez Santos

Summary: Discover the nuances of Irish music sessions through the insights of UK accordionist Luke Daniels in conversation with Tara Connaghan. This episode explores what makes a great session, common pitfalls, and how to contribute positively whether you're a novice or a seasoned musician. In this episode: Luke shares hilarious and memorable session mishaps, including a disruptive session in Milltown and an unwelcoming experience with a plastic bag. The significance of listening over talking and the impact of environment on session quality. How to join a session when you're just starting out, including practical tips on timing, tune selection, and attitude The debate over recording sessions silently or with consent, and the ethics surrounding it. Insights into playful and respectful interactions with musicians of all levels and ages. A discussion on tuning in different keys and regional playing styles affecting session dynamics. The importance of not taking oneself too seriously, "don't be a dick", as a guiding principle for session etiquette. Timestamp Highlights: 0:00 - Introduction to Luke Daniels 2:34 - What makes a session successful: number of players and responsiveness 4:05 - How fragile good sessions are and the importance of natural flow 6:30 - A memorable incident: a disruptive pub session in Milltown 8:46 - The story of a plastic bag and unwelcome gatekeeping at a session 10:31 - Giving feedback to fellow musicians and managing social interactions 13:04 - The impact of recording in sessions and respecting musicians' boundaries 25:14 - How beginners should approach joining sessions and tune repertoire 35:41 - The regional differences in session styles and tempo considerations 41:25 - The balance of structure and freedom in improvisation and etiquette 42:54 - The mystery question: playing in different keys and tuning considerations Resources & Links: https://lukedanielsmusic.com www.sessionetiquette.com In Tune with Tradition - Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette In Tune with Tradition: The Private Session Experience www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat Podcasthon: https://podcasthon.org/podcaster/in-tune-with-tradition Donegal Cancer Flights & Services: https://ionadnp.ie/donegal-cancer-flights/?lang=en Donate: https://ionadnp.ie/donations/tabhair-sintiuis/ Produced, recorded & edited by Tara Connaghan and guest editor Anita Alvarez Santos Keywords: Irish Music Sessions, Session Etiquette, Luke Daniels, Accordionist Insights, Musical Improvisation, Session Atmosphere, Recording Ethics, Regional Playing, Styles, Musical Connection, Beginner Session Tips, Irish music

In this episode Tara Connaghan talks with Emmy-Winning TV host, Mickela Mallozzi, about her love for Ireland and Irish music and how she has learned to 'read the room' through her years of presenting the 'Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi' TV series. Discover how to respectfully participate in Irish sessions and the importance of cultural understanding, cultural nuances and the joy of musical exchange. This episode is part of the Podcasthon - a charity event uniting podcasters worldwide to raise awareness for local charities. https://podcasthon.org/ My chosen charity: Donegal Flights and Cancer Services https://ionadnp.ie/donegal-cancer-flights/?lang=en Donate to Donegal Flights and Cancer Services: https://ionadnp.ie/donations/tabhair-sintiuis/ Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi' TV series https://www.travelbarefeet.com/ Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/travelbarefeet Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SessionEtiquette www.sessionetiquette.com In tune with Tradition: The Private Session Experience: www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat Vote for the podcast at the NYC Podcasting Awards: https://www.silver-nyc.com/nycpodcastawards/vote Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Irish Session Culture 01:33 Michaela's Connection to Irish Music and Culture 05:24 What Does an Irish Traditional Music Session Mean? 10:03 How to Approach a Session as a Newcomer 13:44 Cultural Nuances and Respect in Irish Sessions 18:43 Learning the Language and Nuances of Irish Music 23:12 Reading the Room and Understanding Session Dynamics 27:43 Handling Requests and Song Selection Etiquette 32:43 The Significance of Silence and Respect in Sessions 37:18 The Emotional and Dynamic Range of Irish Music 42:16 The Role of Community and Generations in Sessions 46:26 Advice for Respectful Participation and Observation 51:17 Final Thoughts on Cultural Respect and Connection Recording, Editing, Mastering: Tara Connaghan Guest editor: Anita Alvarez Santos Creative Virtual Assistant www.SolaraSage.us Keywords Irish music, music sessions, Mickela Mallozzi, traditional music, musicians, music community, session etiquette, music culture, travel bare feet, Irish American

Summary In this episode of "In Tune with Tradition”, Tara Connaghan talks to author of the book ‘Field Guide to the Irish Music Session’ Barry Foy. He shares his personal journey, starting from his early experiences in Dublin's vibrant music scene in the 1970s, where he is thankful he was tolerated, sometimes several nights every week. Barry discusses the psychological barriers that new musicians face when joining sessions, emphasising the importance of psychological safety to truly enjoy and contribute to the music. He also reflects on the evolution of Irish music, the pressures faced by musicians today, and the significance of understanding the unspoken rules of sessions to foster a welcoming environment for all participants. Throughout the conversation, Barry highlights the need for patience and understanding among musicians, especially when it comes to welcoming newcomers. He shares anecdotes from his own experiences, illustrating the challenges and joys of participating in sessions. The discussion also touches on the impact of technology on traditional music, the importance of repertoire, and the communal aspect of music-making that transcends individual skill levels. Barry's insights serve as a guide for both seasoned musicians and newcomers, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Irish music. Links: www.sessionetiquette.com www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat Book: Field Guide to the Irish Music Session, by Barry Foy Advert: www.soundsound.ie DanDan Fitzgerald recording studio Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Irish Music Sessions 01:12 Barry Foy's Journey in Irish Music 04:50 The Importance of Psychological Safety 09:35 Navigating the Unspoken Rules 16:15 The Evolution of Irish Music 25:16 The Role of Technology in Music Sessions 34:08 Creating an Inclusive Session Environment 42:51 Advice for Newcomers to Irish Music Sessions 51:44 Reflections on the Future of Irish Music Recording, Editing, Mastering: Tara Connaghan Guest editor: Anita Alvarez Santos Creative Virtual Assistant www.SolaraSage.us Keywords Irish music, music sessions, Barry Foy, traditional music, musicians, music community, session etiquette, music culture

Episode 11: Leonard Barry If that happened consistently it would drive me mad! Summary In this episode of 'In Tune with Tradition’, Tara engages in a deep conversation with uileann piper Leonard Barry about the significance of Irish music sessions, the etiquette involved, and the importance of respect and listening in traditional music. They explore the dynamics of group sessions, the role of accompaniment instruments, and the need for inclusivity and encouragement for new musicians. The discussion highlights memorable experiences in sessions and the collective joy that music brings to both musicians and listeners alike. Links from Show: Course starting in January. Buy now at 2025 prices. Prices will go up at 11.59pm on 31st December 2025. https://www.sessionetiquette.com/courses Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 01:58 The Importance of Irish Music Sessions 05:23 Learning Through Listening 07:58 Session Etiquette for Beginners 11:18 The Role of Accompaniment Instruments 14:25 Creating the Right Atmosphere in Sessions 16:48 Respect and Inclusivity in Music 20:04 Navigating Different Skill Levels 22:45 Recording in Sessions 25:00 The Magic of Shared Musical Experiences 27:25 Encouraging New Musicians 29:52 Memorable Sessions and Learning from Heroes 32:46 The Dynamics of Group Sessions 35:26 Awareness and Respect in Sessions 38:11 Final Thoughts on Session Etiquette Keywords Irish music, session etiquette, traditional music, listening skills, music community, respect, learning, musicianship, cultural heritage, music sessions, uileann pipes, Irish music sessions