In Tune with Tradition

Tara Connaghan

The “In Tune With Tradition” podcast is 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 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 a seasoned 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 up brilliant 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 at Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy in July 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.

Episode

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: The Private Session Experience

www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat

Podcasthon:

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 Tune with Tradition

48.58 min

Lack of etiquette is anyone that disrupts the flow

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