ABSTRACT

What can be learned in Irish traditional music sessions? What cannot? How does one ‘learn tunes on the fly’ and is this even allowed or appropriate? This chapter explores the benefits, challenges, and mundane aspects of playing and learning in sessions. The chapter begins with a brief history of traditional music sessions, and rich ethnographic details about core features of this popular music-making context. The analysis then deconstructs the aural learning process, detailing how traditional musicians acquire repertoire and instrumental techniques. Following this, the session is explored as a venue of situated learning – where neophytes slowly develop essential musical and interpersonal skills. Issues of peer-guided learning and motivation feature strongly during this discussion. The ‘Troubleshooting’ section highlights challenging aspects of sessions – noise levels, drunkenness, personality clashes, and disagreements – all which can jeopardize or completely derail the learning process. Lessons can be learned from such pitfalls, however, as musicians continue to learn and develop within session circles and the wider community of practice.