How should I behave at a traditional music session in a pub?
A session is musicians playing together for their own enjoyment, with the pub listening in, so treat it as a front room rather than a stage. Sit where you can hear, keep conversation low while a tune is running, and let the silence after a set fill before you clap or talk. Do not join the circle with an instrument unless you are invited, and ask before filming. Sessions often start later than advertised, around 9.30pm, and build slowly. Buying the musicians a drink is a kind gesture but never an obligation. Comhaltas branches run many of the regular sessions listed in the music guide.
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Sources
- Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann: traditional music, sessions and branches, comhaltas.ie
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