There will be a lot of ‘hints and tips’ in this section and hopefully it will not be overwhelming. But if even just one of these suggestions smooths the path towards you becoming a fully participating player in a session, then we will be delighted
It’s also important to clarify that this section relates to the smaller, more intimate session that you might find in a pub. It does not cover the larger, free-for-all sessions that you are likely to find organised as part of a folk festival.
- Remember that we all had to start somewhere, so we have been through this process :>) What will drive you on will undoubtedly be your passion for the music and a real desire to play and contribute
- If you want to find out about a particular session, do go along and listen first. That way you will find out two important things: 1 – What tunes are being played so you can learn them when you get back home; and 2 – You will also get a feel for the dynamics of the session and how you might fit in
- Every session will usually have a ‘leader’. If you would like to play along, find out who the leader is, and ask them it it will be OK to join in, even if it’s in the background. Once you sit down and display your bodhran, you’re effectively part of the session. The leader will be welcoming, but without first hearing you, will not know what your contribution is likely to be
- Don’t be afraid to be a ‘shrinking violet’! When you start, it’s much better to be in the background keeping a low musical profile. If you play quietly, you will hear yourself playing but you are likely to be inaudible to the rest of the session participants. This will enable you to build confidence in your own ability.