Session Readiness

What You'll Learn

Everything you need to play confidently in Irish music sessions: etiquette, tune selection, playing with others, building a repertoire, and handling the pressure of live group playing.

Session Etiquette

• Listen first — sit and listen to a full round before playing. Learn the vibe and the tunes being played.
• Don't play too loud — the tin whistle can pierce. If you can hear yourself over everyone else, you're too loud.
• Join only tunes you know — sit out if you don't know a tune. Trying to fake fast reels will throw everyone off.
• No teaching unless asked — sessions are for playing, not lessons. Save advice for outside the session.

Building Repertoire

Aim for 20-30 tunes you can play confidently at session tempo. Include a mix of:

• 8-10 reels
• 6-8 jigs
• 2-3 hornpipes
• 1-2 polkas
• 1 slow air

Learn each tune thoroughly — not just the notes but the ornamentation, phrasing, and typical keys.

Playing with Others

• Lock into the rhythm — match the groove of the bodhrán player or the guitar. Don't push or pull the tempo.
• Watch the leader — in many sessions, one player leads each set. Watch them for tempo changes and tune endings.
• Drop out if unsure — it's better to stop playing for 4 bars than to play wrong notes that distract others.

Handling Nerves

Nerves are normal — even experienced players get them. Strategies:

• Start with tunes you know cold. Build confidence before attempting less familiar ones.
• Focus on rhythm, not ornaments. If you get nervous and drop ornaments, the rhythm will still keep you in the session.
• Breathe. Take a full breath between tunes. Rushing between tunes creates panic.

Practice Tips

• Record backing tracks (or use YouTube) to practice playing with accompaniment.
• Practice starting tunes — can you launch into each of your repertoire tunes confidently?
• Practice at session tempo (reels: 100-120 BPM, jigs: 80-100 BPM).

Common Mistakes

• Playing too many tunes you half-know — it's better to play 10 tunes well than 30 tunes poorly.
• Not listening to others — if you're focused only on your own playing, you'll miss cues, tempo changes, and the overall groove.
• Showing off — sessions are communal, not competitive. Flashy playing doesn't earn respect. Solid rhythm and good listening do.