Summary

This episode of 'In Tune with Tradition' features a live discussion at the Ennis Trad Festival in November 2025. The panel consisted of fiddle player, Siobhan Peoples, multi-instrumentalist Autumn Rhodes and dancer and listener, Carmel Greene. We explore the essence of Irish traditional music sessions, exploring the roles of musicians, dancers, and listeners. The panel discusses the challenges faced by beginners and intermediates, the importance of etiquette, and the collective experience of music. Together with the audience we also reflect on the impact of COVID-19 on the music scene, the commercialisation of traditional music and emphasising the need for community and connection in sessions.

Links mentioned in the podcast:

Pilot phase of in depth courses on session etiquette - the chance to ask the questions you've always wanted to ask.

https://www.sessionetiquette.com/courses

Book featuring a chapter on 'Unlocking the Magic of Irish Music' by Tara Connaghan: ChangeMakers - Entrepreneurs with a Mission - Voices with a Message'

https://amzn.eu/d/1DFvxNA (available now)

Or pre-order https://www.sessionetiquette.com/shop

Link to school child out-competing the rest of the school choir: (mentioned by Siobhan Peoples)

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=4182812845154569&rdid=0JSf80e6yuKMA8tS

West Clare Mullagh Half Set (mentioned by Carmel Greene)

https://youtu.be/tPwfGJEJb0c?si=fffXwuQ75DMv3FEY

Takeaways

• Irish traditional music sessions are social gatherings that require awareness and collaboration.
• Listeners play a crucial role in enhancing the session experience.
• Beginners often face challenges when entering a session for the first time.
• Intermediate players must navigate social dynamics and repertoire choices.
• Listening is as important as playing in a session.
• Session etiquette is essential for maintaining harmony among musicians.
• The architecture of a session affects the overall experience.
• The collective experience of music transcends individual performances.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Irish Traditional Music Sessions

03:04 The Essence of an Irish Traditional Music Session

08:40 The Role of Dancers and Listeners in Sessions

11:12 Challenges for Beginners in Music Sessions

16:25 Navigating Intermediate Challenges in Sessions

22:23 The Importance of Listening in Sessions

26:18 Session Etiquette and Group Dynamics

32:23 The Architecture of a Session

37:41 The Collective Experience of Music

42:56 The Disconnect Between Dance and Music

48:11 The Impact of COVID-19 on Music Sessions

56:59 Commercialisation of Traditional Music

01:02:19 Closing Thoughts and Audience Engagement

Keywords

Irish music, traditional sessions, Irish music sessions, music etiquette, session etiquette, dance, community, COVID-19 impact, music challenges, listening, group dynamics, commercialisation, music interview