Live from the Ennis Trad Festival 2025

SummaryThis episode of 'In Tune with Tradition' features a live discussion at the Ennis Trad Festival in November 2025. The panel consisted of fiddle player, Siobhan Peoples, multi-instrumentalist Autumn Rhodes and dancer and listener, Carmel Greene. We explore the essence of Irish traditional music sessions, exploring the roles of musicians, dancers, and listeners. The panel discusses the challenges faced by beginners and intermediates, the importance of etiquette, and the collective experience of music. Together with the audience we also reflect on the impact of COVID-19 on the music scene, the commercialisation of traditional music and emphasising the need for community and connection in sessions.Links mentioned in the podcast: Pilot phase of in depth courses on session etiquette - the chance to ask the questions you've always wanted to ask.https://www.sessionetiquette.com/coursesBook featuring a chapter on 'Unlocking the Magic of Irish Music' by Tara Connaghan: ChangeMakers - Entrepreneurs with a Mission - Voices with a Message'https://amzn.eu/d/1DFvxNA (available now)Or pre-order https://www.sessionetiquette.com/shopLink to school child out-competing the rest of the school choir: (mentioned by Siobhan Peoples)https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=4182812845154569&rdid=0JSf80e6yuKMA8tSWest Clare Mullagh Half Set (mentioned by Carmel Greene)https://youtu.be/tPwfGJEJb0c?si=fffXwuQ75DMv3FEYTakeawaysIrish traditional music sessions are social gatherings that require awareness and collaboration.Listeners play a crucial role in enhancing the session experience.Beginners often face challenges when entering a session for the first time.Intermediate players must navigate social dynamics and repertoire choices.Listening is as important as playing in a session.Session etiquette is essential for maintaining harmony among musicians.The architecture of a session affects the overall experience.The collective experience of music transcends individual performances.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Irish Traditional Music Sessions03:04 The Essence of an Irish Traditional Music Session08:40 The Role of Dancers and Listeners in Sessions11:12 Challenges for Beginners in Music Sessions16:25 Navigating Intermediate Challenges in Sessions22:23 The Importance of Listening in Sessions26:18 Session Etiquette and Group Dynamics32:23 The Architecture of a Session37:41 The Collective Experience of Music42:56 The Disconnect Between Dance and Music48:11 The Impact of COVID-19 on Music Sessions56:59 Commercialisation of Traditional Music01:02:19 Closing Thoughts and Audience EngagementKeywordsIrish music, traditional sessions, Irish music sessions, music etiquette, session etiquette, dance, community, COVID-19 impact, music challenges, listening, group dynamics, commercialisation, music interview