Skip to content
Sign in
Artwork for In Tune with Tradition - Perspectives on Session Etiquette in Irish Traditional Music
MusicMusic InterviewsSociety & CultureArtsPerforming ArtsExplicit

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

Tara Connaghan

Welcome to “In Tune With Tradition,” the podcast dedicated to exploring the unwritten rules, shared experiences, and stories of Irish traditional music sessions. Sessions are magical gatherings where music, community, and tradition come together, and it is session etiquette (the customs and courtesies shared by all) that helps sessions run smoothly and ensures everyone feels welcome, whether playing, listening, or joining in for the first time.

Hosted by Tara Connaghan, a seasoned and well respected Irish fiddle player and cultural insider, this series dives deep into the heart of the Irish session. Each episode features conversations with musicians, session regulars, and passionate participants from Ireland and beyond, sharing their personal experiences and perspectives on the etiquette and quirks that make each session unique and magical.

Whether you’re an experienced player, a newcomer, or simply curious about the world of Irish traditional music, “In Tune With Tradition” offers an authentic, entertaining, and insightful look at the elements that make memorable Irish music sessions. Expect lively stories, practical advice, and plenty of laughs as we celebrate the music, the people, and the spirit of the session.

The podcast was launched Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2025 in Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, Ireland by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, renowned fiddle player, singer, and founding member of Altan.

Join Tara and her guests each episode as they tune into the tradition, sharing the wisdom and warmth that resonate through the magic of Irish music sessions.

Episodes are usually launched fortnightly.

Play
Open in
  • 21 episodes
  • monthly
  • Avg 1 hr 8 min
  • English

Support the show

Goes straight to the publisher. podnod takes nothing.

Episodes 21

NewestOldestLongest
All1Unplayed1In progress0Played0
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • S1 · E2
    Jul 13, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min

    Musical Breakthroughs

    Keywords Irish traditional music, session etiquette, Martin Hayes, music culture, social dynamics, listening skills, respect for tradition, performance pressure, rhythm in music, community, musical breakthroughs Takeaways The podcast explores unwritten rules of session etiquette in Irish traditional music. Music sessions are as much about social connection as they are about music. Familiarity with musicians enhances the session experience. Anxiety can arise from feeling pressured to perform in sessions. Tradition and respect for older musicians are crucial in Irish music. Financial pressures can alter the dynamics of music sessions. Listening actively is essential for musicians and learners alike. Openness to experience can lead to breakthroughs in performance. Respecting the legacy of past musicians enriches one's own playing. Balancing technique with emotional expression is key to impactful music. Summary In this episode of 'In Tune with Tradition', Tara Connaghan engages with renowned fiddler Martin Hayes to explore the nuances of session etiquette in Irish traditional music. They discuss the social aspects of music sessions, the evolution of session culture, the importance of listening and respect for tradition, and the challenges musicians face in these environments. The conversation highlights the balance between technique and emotional expression, the impact of financial pressures on music, and the significance of creating a welcoming atmosphere for all musicians. This podcast sometimes features strong language, as is often the way in lively Irish conversation—especially when a good story’s being told! It’s all part of the colour and character of our sessions, and never meant to offend. If you’re sensitive to the odd curse word, this is your heads-up. Otherwise, settle in and enjoy the craic! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Session Etiquette 02:11 The Essence of Irish Music Sessions 07:31 The Evolution of Session Culture 11:40 Navigating Social Dynamics in Sessions 15:56 The Role of Tradition and Respect 21:49 The Impact of Financial Pressures on Music 27:42 Listening and Learning in Music 31:09 The Importance of Openness in Music 35:48 Respecting the Legacy of Musicians 39:45 The Balance of Technique and Emotion 45:16 Challenges Faced in Sessions 50:01 Creating a Welcoming Environment 54:48 The Role of Rhythm in Music 58:40 Finding Flow in Performance 01:04:39 The Ideal Session Experience

    • Transcript
Showing 21–21 of 21 episodes