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.
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This episode of In Tune with Tradition was recorded in person in Miltown Malbay during Willie Clancy Week 2025, (shortly after the podcast was officially launched), where Clare fiddle player, teacher and broadcaster Joan Hanrahan joins Tara Connaghan for a warm, reflective conversation about what Irish traditional music sessions really are: shared spaces built on listening, trust, and people first. They talk through session etiquette, intergenerational learning, the role of repetition and repertoire, and why music can feel healing in moments of grief, joy, and everything in between.
Chapters
01:25 – What an Irish music session means to Joan
02:22 – First sessions in Garvey’s in Inagh and learning tunes by osmosis
04:55 – Why the intergenerational nature of Irish music matters
05:51 – Nobody knows it all
06:13 – Old tunes, repertoire and why quantity is not everything
07:24 – Advice for joining a session when you know nobody
08:25 – The natural high when a session really works
11:15 – People first, music second
12:27 – Music as a constant through grief, loss and life
14:18 – Friendships across the world and a connection with Cape Breton
17:13 – What happens when musicians truly gel
18:21 – Processing grief through music
20:05 – Writing tunes for Joan’s father and sister
24:48 – Why Joan likes playing tunes more than twice
26:21 – What blocks the flow of a good session
29:44 – Welcoming people without asking them to prove their worth
30:33 – Joan’s ideal session size and why sessions should inspire you
31:58 – Festival sessions, hospitality and keeping music human
35:18 – Ten ingredients of a successful session
38:12 – Old pubs, open fires, singers, dancers and good listeners
Recorded and produced by Tara Connaghan and edited by Anita Alvarez Santos.
Recorded in person in Miltown Malbay during Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2025.
Irish Music Sessions Are Strange Social Experiments!
Season 1 · Episode 23
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 • Duration 01:01:19
Fiddle player and teacher Jacqui Martin joins Tara Connaghan to talk about friendship, slow sessions, rhythm, seating, safe places to play and why Irish music sessions can feel like strange social experiments where anyone can walk in and change the whole evening.
This episode explores how music can regulate the nervous system, build belonging, and help people feel safe in communal playing spaces. Tara Connaghan is joined by Louise Kelly, a consultant music therapist from the North of Ireland, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of Resilient Rhythms, whose perspective connects traditional music with anxiety, confidence, and connection.
We discuss why some players sit on the periphery, why others play loudly or keep leaving and returning, and how those behaviours can be understood through fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses rather than judgment.
Chapters
00:00 - Music as shared nervous system regulation
00:44 - Introduction to Louise Kelly and the episode’s focus
03:02 - Louise’s background in music therapy and why she speaks publicly about music’s power
04:32 - The TEDx selection process and the journey to speaking on stage
06:24 - Why music is a biological necessity, not just entertainment
07:46 - Sessions, teamwork, and rhythm as connection
09:01 - Growing up outside the Irish music tradition and feeling drawn in
10:55 - Discovering session etiquette through a therapist’s lens
12:49 - The nervous system’s job: keeping us safe
13:45 - Fight, flight, freeze, and fawn in session behaviour
15:05 - Loud playing as a possible fight response
16:33 - Playing louder after being ignored elsewhere
20:03 - Shy entry, fawning, and freeze in newcomers
21:00 - Humour and repeated movement as safety behaviours
22:25 - Watching body language and seat choice from the outside
23:39 - Why confrontation often pushes musicians toward flight
What makes a good Irish music session?
Season 1 · Episode 21
Saturday, July 18, 2026 • Duration 58:29
In this episode of In Tune with Tradition, Tara Connaghan speaks with Donal O’Connor in Belfast ahead of Belfast Trad Festival and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
This conversation goes straight into one of the hardest parts of Irish session culture: expectations.
Donal talks about how different people arrive at a session wanting different things. Young musicians may want to play their new tunes. Adult learners and intermediate players may want the buzz of a big inclusive session. Older or more experienced musicians may hope for a smaller corner, strong repertoire, good listening, space, chat and musical connection.
The problems begin when all of those expectations land in the same room and are not spoken about.
Donal also talks about Belfast Trad Festival, the challenge of managing session trails, why master musicians need space to play too, how listening sessions can help, why song and dance matter, and why respect remains central to the whole thing.
This is a practical, thoughtful conversation about sessions as living social spaces: places where music, people, rooms, listeners, age, gender, alcohol, confidence, safety and expectation all meet.
Podcast 1st birthday special - Celebrating a year of Irish music sessions and community
Season 1 · Episode 20
Saturday, July 11, 2026 • Duration 01:56:14
Join Tara Connaghan as she reflects on a vibrant year of exploring Irish music sessions, session etiquette, and community connection via the In Tune with Tradition podcast.
This special episode features insights from musicians, educators, and session enthusiasts from around the world discussing what makes sessions meaningful and how to foster better experiences for all.
Guests: Dr. Michael Walsh, Michael Eskin, Lori Madden and Mimi Vidaver-Davis.
Transcript available on https://www.sessionetiquette.com/podcast
This episode is also available to watch on https://www.youtube.com/live/V6ItyDgg9y0
In this engaging conversation, Tara Connaghan speaks with Deirdre Scanlan, former singer with Irish music group, Solas. Deirdre is a passionate musician and educator, about the essence of Irish music, the importance of traditional singing, and the dynamics of music sessions. She shares her insights on emotional connections in music, the role of technology, and the challenges of teaching and learning in the musical community. They explore the expectations and realities of participating in music sessions, the significance of participation, and the balance between tradition and innovation. The discussion also touches on listener questions, providing valuable perspectives on navigating the world of Irish music.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Deirdre Scanlan
01:50 The Essence of Irish Music Sessions
05:35 Understanding Traditional Singing
09:15 Emotional Connection in Music
12:51 Gender Perspectives in Music Expression
15:31 The Evolution of Tradition
17:14 Variations in Singing vs. Instrumental Performance
22:57 Teaching and Learning in Music
28:24 Navigating Music Sessions
30:46 Navigating Session Etiquette
33:39 Understanding Session Dynamics
36:15 The Role of Personal Experience in Sessions
38:24 Baggage and Expectations in Musical Spaces
40:48 Inclusivity and Participation in Sessions
44:26 The Pressure of Performance and Hosting
47:45 Diverse Motivations in Musical Sessions
51:20 Finding Value in Every Session
I really LOVE Irish music
Season 1 · Episode 18
Monday, June 8, 2026 • Duration 01:19:53
Summary
Join Tara Connaghan as she chats with Four Men and a Dog bodhrán player, Gino Lupari. Explore the rich culture of Irish traditional music sessions, the importance of etiquette, and how to improve as a musician. Insights from a seasoned Irish musician sharing stories, tips, and the essence of session camaraderie.
Chapters
00:00 The Origins of Four Men and a Dog
03:42 The Heart of Irish Music Sessions
08:52 The Power of Community in Music
14:32 Navigating Session Etiquette
20:12 The Balance of Skill and Inclusion in Sessions
25:53 Introduction to Sketch City and Music Culture
26:41 The Importance of Listening in Music
29:18 Navigating Musical Expectations and Parental Influence
31:21 The Journey of Learning and Playing Music
35:04 Understanding the Tools of Music
39:13 Passing Down Musical Traditions
42:18 The Role of Dancers in Music
44:48 Teaching Adults in Music
48:44 The Rhythm of Music and Its Influence
50:40 Exploring the Dynamics of Music Sessions
52:59 The Journey of Learning and Practicing Music
54:45 Navigating the Social Structures of Music Sessions
58:22 The Importance of Confidence in Joining Sessions
You need to know these chords!
Season 1 · Episode 17
Friday, May 15, 2026 • Duration 01:13:11
Episode 17: Robert Sommer
Join Tara Connaghan as she interviews Robert Sommer, a newcomer to Irish traditional music, about his journey into sessions, the social and technical aspects of playing guitar, and how music can be a source of joy and connection.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest background
01:22 What does an Irish session mean to Robert?
07:42 The moment Robert decided to pursue Irish music
11:34 Music as a source of joy and connection
15:34 Advice for beginners and newcomers
22:35 Overcoming nerves and self-consciousness
28:46 Technical tips: chords, tunings, and ornamentation
35:18 The importance of listening and contributing
42:02 Session etiquette and respecting the music
52:22 The community and cultural significance of Irish sessions
01:03:45 Final thoughts and Robert’s question for next guest
The Irish Fest Kansas City - https://www.kcirishfest.com
If you work the hardest in Irish music, you get the most reward
Season 1 · Episode 16
Sunday, April 26, 2026 • Duration 01:07:42
Summary
Join Tara Connaghan for an in-depth conversation with Damien Mullane, a distinguished Irish accordion player from London. We explore session etiquette, the importance of inclusivity and handling mistakes.
Links
www.sessionetiquette.com
www.sketchcity.co
Chapters
00:00 The Essence of Irish Traditional Music Sessions
09:37 Engaging New Musicians and Session Etiquette
18:58 The Role of Mistakes in Music
28:08 Fostering a Positive Session Environment
34:23 Navigating Musical Etiquette in Sessions
36:08 The Dynamics of Playing with Friends
38:38 The Balance of Fun and Seriousness in Music
39:58 Embracing Mistakes and Humor in Performance
42:08 Understanding Session Traditions and Etiquette
45:41 The Role of Speed in Musical Sessions
49:37 Finding Balance Between Singers and Musicians
52:43 Identifying and Addressing Session Disruptions
58:35 Personal Growth Through Musical Expression
keywords
Irish traditional music, session etiquette, music community, improvisation, musical mistakes, inclusivity, session leadership, Irish culture, music education, live performance
How to find your voice in Irish traditional music
Season 1 · Episode 15
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • Duration 02:08:07
Discover how Irish music sessions are more than just tunes, they're vibrant social gatherings that thrive on authenticity, politeness, and shared musical language. Join us as we explore the nuances of session etiquette, musical identity, and the magic of finding your voice within the community.
Main Topics:
The social fabric and etiquette of Irish music sessions
Developing personal musical voice and confidence
The cultural differences in music perception and participation
In this episode:
Lexie Boatwright shares her journey of adapting to Irish musical nuances and social vibes
Insight into how social connection and politeness shape session interactions
The importance of self-awareness and authenticity for musicians
The role of rhythm, dynamics, and personal style in Irish music
The cultural contrast in perceptions of competition, performance, and self-promotion
Practical advice on how to contribute meaningfully to sessions at any level
Reflection on how musical and cultural identity influence learning and performing
Timestamps:
00:00 - The social essence of Irish sessions and fitting in
00:27 - The importance of social vibe over technical skill
01:46 - How social and musical dynamics intertwine
03:46 - The role of caring and authenticity in sessions
05:13 - Building connections through social interaction
06:26 - Vulnerability and learning as an adult musician
07:42 - The impact of travel and access on learning Irish music
09:02 - Brain science and learning Irish music
10:48 - The stages of developing fluency and confidence
12:48 - The significance of rhythm, swing, and phrasing
15:01 - The analogy of storytelling and fluency in music
24:34 - Cultural identity, language, and why the tradition matters so deeply
25:08 - Louise rejoining beginner trad life through North Coast Antrim
26:43 - Practicing a session at home by recording and replaying it
28:26 - Therapy, music, and the value of repetition
29:44 - Confidence, anxiety, and finding a voice later in life
31:24 - Teenagers, music, and why young people live inside sound
32:28 - Why adults lose sight of music’s value
36:05 - What really stops newcomers is fear of getting it wrong
38:53 - How shame is learned through family and society
40:08 - School messages that damage confidence in music
41:16 - Everyone can participate without being “a trained singer”
42:06 - Walking in circles, staying on the periphery, and feeling safe first
43:19 - The sweet spot where musicians become one
44:17 - Coping strategies for anxiety and choosing music as support
46:20 - Breath work, self-awareness, and self-expression as regulation tools
48:08 - Session rules as a way to protect safety, not exclude people
49:28 - Mind-body awareness in music and in everyday life
50:44 - Music as mindfulness and being present in the moment
54:09 - Slow sessions as beginner-safe spaces and why they matter
57:47 - Session vibe, belonging, and why context changes everything
59:39 - Louise’s advice for listeners: be open, curious, and avoid perfectionism
61:34 - A memory of belonging in a school traditional group
63:48 - The tune that still moves Louise and why music stays personal
64:32 - Closing reflections on reopening a long-closed doorway
Resources:
Louise Kelly, TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTKezQB0A3E
https://resilientrhythms.co.uk/
https://www.sessionetiquette.com/questionnaire
In Tune with Tradition - Private Session Experience: https://www.sessionetiquette.com/retreat