This is my first post to the session and I just wanted to start out by saying what a great site this is. I found it by accident recently while I was looking for some music, and have been in the background picking up your great advice and having some good laughs along the way.
I’m in Newfoundland with a fair music background though I’m a girl who hasn’t been playing guitar that long. After much deliberation (its been ongoing) I’m going to attempt my first session this weekend. This is something that I’ve always wanted to do (I’m hopelessly addicted to trad) but it is also one of the most intimidating things I’ve ever worked myself up for! Nothing about walking into a place with experienced musicians, where I probably won’t know any of the tunes, and won’t have any sheet music to help me along, seems like a good idea at all. I know the hardest battle is going to be to getting my arse down there. That alone will be a solo triumph in itself. I’m pretty sure I won’t even get to the stage where I can even think about playing, but I’m hoping that I’ll at least be able to pick up some of the tunes to work on so that next time (assuming I make it through the first session) I might be able to attempt a song or two.
What’s the worst thing that could happen? Please don’t actually tell me, I have visions of being told to come back in ten years, or worse, being told to put the instrument down and to slowly, walk away from it. Even worse yet, the Stanley Cup Playoffs are this weekend (picture the World Cup for Canada- its hockey). You can come up with your own scenario. Would this be a bad time to attempt this???
Thanks to you all for your posts, moving those of us who are learners and scared to death to take the first step (I think there is probably many of us out there). You may not realize how much your words and stories help. I’m still afraid that I’m attempting this too soon and that I’m going to be the one that annoys the hell out of everyone (or worse, the one that has to be babied along) but as one of the musicians in town here told me, “sometimes you have to just jump in”. OK…maybe its only my big toe, but it’s a start. Maybe I can find a mask to wear... maybe a paper bag
Cuthail
PS Go Edmonton Oilers!
PPS I don’t even like hockey
PPSS Can one actually read abc without translating it?
Seriously, you won't know what to expect until you go. How can you ever expect to play at a session if you don't know what they are like? You can read as much as you want and learn as many tues as you can, but that won't mean you can play at a session. My point is go, you can't ever expect to be good enough for a session if you have never seen one.
Cuthail, I would say you should go, but maybe bring a mini disc or some type of recorder, instead of an inatrument, with you the first night. You can then study the pace, the tunes, the etiquette, in the privacy of your own place. It's a good idea to introduce yourself and ask if they would mind if you joined them at some stage to play. Most people will be delighted to see a new face. Once the ice is broken, its much easier to walk in with your chosen weapon. Try to learn a few of their tunes ......there's nothing as flattering as somebody making a real effort to fit in. Best of luck!
Hi Cuthail - as a fellow traveller on this road, i suggest you make yourself known to some of the members of the session you regularly (if you don't yet then you need to) go along to listen to.
Maybe in a break, when one of the musicians is getting the pints, have a chat with them at the bar or say gidday to a couple at the table. I'm sure that if they are good friendly encouraging types they will encourage you keep going, offer you grains of advice, or maybe just be welcoming. Maybe they'll ask you to play a few tunes yourself; some don't mind accommodating those who are new to the session thing by maybe playing a few tunes that that you know that might be outside their usual repertoir, and maybe a little slower too .
It's pot luck here tho - they might not be interested in accommodating a newby. But they may still have useful advice, or may be just inspiring to listen to.
If there isn't room for you there... find another session that will suit you better; in terms of contributing to the tunes.
Cuthail, treat it like an invitation to a strangers party, ask can you join, be careful to listen the first week that you attend and make an effort to get to know the fellow musicians, as someone has already pointed out above.
If you enter a new session in a respectful manner, most players (but not all, so dont be upset) will really appreciate the fact that you took the time to listen and get a feel for their music, particularily if you are a backer. In the majority of cases, they will make you feel comfortable and wont mind if you are still a learner.
In my experience, most newbies flounder because they dont understand the basic manners involved in joining a session for the first time, for example, they will play constantly their own tunes, out of tune, too fast, too loudly etc.
The secret to making a session your regular, is to take your time, listen and decide if they play the music that you need to hear in order to improve yourself.
Good luck. I'm sure you will be fine.
PPSS Can one actually read abc without translating it?
Yes! ~ And I suspect most of us here. I have known folks that couldn't read the dots but could read the ABC's, or one of its related forms, like tonic solfa... Using those letters in place of ABC's, so DRM's? And others ~ some read tablature but nothing else ~ and that exists for a lot of instruments, even a version in a sense for whistle and flute...
But back to the main swing of this, with just a little effort, even less if you already read some form of notation, like the dots, the ABC's will come to you. Give it a try by first learning to play, say on your whistle, some basic tunes from the ABC's. Here's Steve Mansfield's excellent intro:
For sessions it is a great tool because you can jot down a few bars on anything just to jog your memory later...
On the SESSION ~ Hey!, whatever your experience, and mostly it will be good, though I can tell you, especially if you are inexperienced, the one bad one seems to outweight everything else, so be on your guard and don't let a single event colour the whole, or try not too. That can be hard, but sometimes folks get in bad moods, which we know nothing about, and they might lash out at someone innocent like yourself and tell the to f-off... Don't take anything like that personally, or try not to. But, I suspect you won't have that problem. You've had some good suggestions given above.
I never go to a session for the first time to play. I always go the first time to listen. If it feels right I might scope the scene out a bit by asking some questions, and if the opportunity arises, make a point of meeting one of the regulars for a chat... Sometimes, because I love exercising my ears, I might make that visit several times before I ask if it is OK to join the 'inner circle'... That may sound funny, but some sessions they have almost 'assigned seating'... You have to appreciated something that has an established existence and history that predates your arrival... It helps to get some understanding... Another in some people enjoy is to take lessons with one of the regulars ~ one of the easiest ways to get that understatnding and a personal introduction...
But don't fear. What I was really meaning to say, is you've got this place here to share your experience, so let us know how it develops, and if you need consolation, a shoulder to weep on, or someone to cheer with or swear with, I know there is a huge selection of such folk here...
Be brave ~ and keep the humour ~ most people are by their basic nature kind ~ but there are things around us that can poison that intent for some, but mostly they are in the minority ~ 'c'
If it was one of our sessions you would be made feel welcome.
Tell the guys you are new to the scene and ask if it's ok to sit in.
One word of advice - a lot of newbie guitar players make the mistake of trying to impress and often end up playing too loud. As long as you play in a quiet and subtle manner and check out the keys with the other musos you should be OK.
I would certainly go along with the advice of Ceolachan & Backer on this one Cuthail. i.e. First time - go to listen!
For example, I attended my first ever Old Time session this week, in an old historic session pub in Co Down - Balloo House, which hosted, now legendary, ITM sessions in the 70s.
Anyway, I spent my time at the session just getting to know some of the guys & 'after asking their permission', recording some of the tune sets.
It went well & I now feel comfortable about going back again, once I have learned some of their sets. I think making the effort to learn some of their sets initially, shows the proper respect for their session.
After a while I may well, when asked, play one or two sets of my own but I feel, if you wish to become a regular friend of the session, treat it & the members wih some manners & respect & the chances are they'll welcome you with open arms.
Just remember it's their session - some of the regulars may well have been going there for many years.
I know how you are feeling. I played my at my first session the other night. I was very nervous as I am very new to the music scene. I play the bodhran and I was absolutley terrified. The other people in the session were very very welcoming. If I didn't know the song or thought I would mess it up I jusy didn't play. It was the most fun I have had in a very long time. And to my surprise they did not say don't come back. LOL
Damn, Ptarm's playing old-time ~ in County Down...
Quick Cuthail, go, go, go, ask to record, ask if you can get some names for tunes, and please, come back and break the mystery. I'm on tender hooks to hear how it all pans out, and I'm rooting for you. You must have consideration in your heart or you wouldn't first ask us loonies for advice. With that kind of care and soft approach you will do well. If anybody gives you grief let us know, we'll form a possee and descend on them with cowboy boots, pearl button shirts, spurs and a YEEHA!!!
It's definately a good idea to go listen and get a feel for things. I've been playing guitar at session for years and I can tell you that regardless of your level of playing ability, if you aren't listening to the tunes and getting a feel for them, you won't be able to back them. I've seen total beginners who come in and play really basic stuff that works well and I've seen good guitar players who don't know the music come in and mess up a whole session.
So, I guess what I am saying is, the most important thing is to make sure you know the tunes. Some of these tunes are very straight forward but some have some little suprises in them that if you just sit down and start playing, you will miss. I can't tell you how many guitarists I've seen that have picked up on the simple A part of a tune that is in D major and just started playing along; only to miss the fact that the B part jumps into G or something.
The best advice I was ever given was that these tunes survived for years without any backing. If you don't know the tune, it will survive another day without it. Most importantly, just be friendly and considerate of others and you will be welcome at most sessions.
Great advice locrian, there is nothing finer than a considerate accompanist, one who doesn't push the tempo, and someone who has a sense of key and an ease in their way, as happy to sit out and listen and appreciate the music, as to appreciate it with their accompaniment... Like with any percussion, if there are several strummers, then, once you do start joining in, do it sparingly, only what you know and are comfortable with, and take turns, which doesn't mean every thing going gets an accompaniment. Take turns with silence too, and give it more than your share...ears remaining open...
Left Los Angeles a short while ago
Flew 'cross the country back to Buffalo
Walked around through the sleet and the snow
With a red bandana on my head
Saw my momma on 12th and Grand
Standing in the alley with the junkyard man
They were both so loaded they could hardly stand
Talkin' 'bout going to Mexico
I said "Momma I was born
Out there I was born again
Been clear to California and back
Was out there so long many times I thought I was dead"
She said, "Sonny what's that you got wrapped around your head?"
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's from Hollywood USA
Love the advice. Maybe it's like joining a motorway in your car - you have to approach carefully and fit in with the speed of everyone around you and then people magically make room for you. Barging in (or being too timid) will cause a bit of disruption and chaos!
I'll be back home for two weeks in July from the 7 to the 21. If you're from the Avalon anywhere let me know where there are any good sessions going on these days as I'd love to join in. I'm from a small town out that way and haven't been home in ten years(waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyy too long). With a nod and a wink I'll be on me way skippin along the ballycars and tryin not to get a switchin from me mudder!
Hi all- thanks for your many great posts. You’re all fantastic! I’m especially loving the posse- reminds me of a song “You’re still just a Newf in a Calgary hat”.
So, here’s the plan for tonight. I have a friend whose leaving the province after this weekend (the perils of island life) and wants to go to a session before he leaves (last Newfoundland hurrah). I’ve jammed with him and he’s very good and suspect he won’t have any problems fitting in. I don’t know if two people descending on a session is a good idea or not, but its nice for me to have someone for support and spend the time with him before he goes. I plan very much to mind my p’s and q’s and take all your very wise advice about asking to join, not playing too loudly (softly catching monkeys). Still certain that I’m not going to play myself (I love the idea of noting sets, and doing my homework). I’m in no hurry.
For Breandan- I mostly have been regular tuning, have done some dropped d but never tried double dropped d. What would be preferred?
For Newfie percussionist - I am on the Avalon (in St. John’s) and as far as I know there are only two or three sessions on a regular basis. One at O’Reilly’s on George Street (Sat 7-10), Erin’s on Water Street (Fridays). I’m not sure but I think I saw them posted in the sessions section. There may be others happening at the Ship but I think they are fairly infrequent and very elite. And I should mention that there is always The Folk Arts Council Folk Night at the Ship on Wednesdays.
Harper Lad- you’re in for a grand time when you get here. Session info is above and I can set you in the direction of things to do and places to go. Try this to start. http://www.newfoundlandandlabradortourism.com/home.zap it will give you some of the places and festivals but I think you’ll find it best if you go off the beaten path. For some reason I didn’t even see the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival posted there which will be Aug 4-6. I’m not sure if I have a link to my email, but you are welcome to contact me if you want more details.
Waterloorotty- thanks for sharing your great story (gives me hope).
It is always a good thing to have a friend on hand, wise move... Just so long as they aren't a scraper looking for a fight... My heart is with you, best wishes...
Well it happened. I did it and I’m still grinning about it this morning. Wow! What a time! We arrived a little early and got invited to sit in very quickly by a very nice bodhran player so my first worry was over (no need to call in the Irish bandana-ed posse- thanks guys!). By the time things started there was quite a collection of musicians and instruments including uilleann pipes, small pipes/whistle, flute, accordion, concertina, a couple of bodhrans (one from Waterford, Ireland), 4 fiddles (including one from Waterford and another from Spain), four guitar players (really 3 and a fraction if you include me and a harmonica player from France. Wow, wow, wow!
I did a lot of listening and watching, took a few notes (and left my little tune book behind), and I asked a few questions about tune names (but nobody seemed to know any of the names!). And then I did what I didn’t think I would do, or could do- I JOINED IN! I did what I could and played what I thought was right and finally understood why there is no sheet music or tab available, its all about really about what you hear and what you feel (there are many right notes and you immediately recognize those that are wrong). I even felt pretty good about a couple of tunes. Through all my worry going into the session, the irony was my guitar was quite inaudible, almost even to me (no worries about this one playing too loudly in sessions- somehow I have a silent guitar!). A blessing in disguise as I get accustomed to playing in this forum. Will worry more about recognizing keys and tempo before I worry too much about volume. If anyone even noticed that I was slow on the changes or played the wrong chord, they were very, very kind and didn’t say a word. We were in fairly tight quarters, some in danger of being skewered in the eye by our neighbours’ bow, but when I offered to give up my seat for one of the pipe players who sat on some stairs, he told me to stay and that it was the best seat he had had in a while. So that is, no one asked me to leave, even when I gave them the chance, no dirty looks or comments on lack of skill or experience. There wasn’t even the notice of the many eyes from the crowd of pub patrons- there was only a wonderful, amazing opus of sound and a lot of very happy faces.
I have much work and practice to do before I can really contribute; I know I couldn’t have held my own if there were fewer musicians or had been the only guitar. I did it though, had a wonderful time and will hopefully get to do it again.
Also for those that were inquiring about sessions in St. John's I found out there is another regular session at Bridie Malloy's (George Street; Sunday 4:00)!
Halellujah!!!! I am all grins... I am happy for you. I just thought, maybe we need an initiation rite, like what they do when you cross the equator the first time ~ well, maybe not?
One practice some folks have who have quiet instruments, like mandolins, concertinas, etc., or if they are quiet players, and I've even known a few percussionists / bodhran players who did likewise, is to sit on the edge of a session, so you can hear yourself better and catch the blend more clearly...
But hell, what am I saying, you're now a veteran... Congrats!!! ~ And MANY HAPPY RETURNS!!!!
Oh yeah, that is such a nice write-up you've made, I hope you add it to the sessions 'comments'. I know if I had a session going I would be chuffed if someone wrote something like that for it. Like with things at Amazon, recommendations, 'informed' recommendations, one's with heart and spirit ~ are always a welcomed read... WARNING ~ if you don't do it, well, it is that good that I would be tempted to. It deserves the repeat, or something similar...
Don't forget to add the new session, but better yet, if you know someone who is a long term attendee ~ ask them to add it on here so others coming your way will know there's a welcome...
Aah...Ceolachan, I think I'm blushing. Thanks so much for your words of encouragment and pearls of wisdom. Because you are such a kind celtic heart I will do as you have requested and repost the note (or perhaps its because you so persuasively threatened )
Cuthail, I think your guitar playing will take off real soon. Keep coming to the sessions and we'll make room for you.
Signed
One of the Bodhran players
PS The session at Bridie Molloy's was great on June 25/06
At one point there were 19 players with three sets of uilleann pipes in the mix. Always a good time.
"My first time"
"My first time"
This is my first post to the session and I just wanted to start out by saying what a great site this is. I found it by accident recently while I was looking for some music, and have been in the background picking up your great advice and having some good laughs along the way.
I’m in Newfoundland with a fair music background though I’m a girl who hasn’t been playing guitar that long. After much deliberation (its been ongoing) I’m going to attempt my first session this weekend. This is something that I’ve always wanted to do (I’m hopelessly addicted to trad) but it is also one of the most intimidating things I’ve ever worked myself up for! Nothing about walking into a place with experienced musicians, where I probably won’t know any of the tunes, and won’t have any sheet music to help me along, seems like a good idea at all. I know the hardest battle is going to be to getting my arse down there. That alone will be a solo triumph in itself. I’m pretty sure I won’t even get to the stage where I can even think about playing, but I’m hoping that I’ll at least be able to pick up some of the tunes to work on so that next time (assuming I make it through the first session) I might be able to attempt a song or two.
What’s the worst thing that could happen? Please don’t actually tell me, I have visions of being told to come back in ten years, or worse, being told to put the instrument down and to slowly, walk away from it. Even worse yet, the Stanley Cup Playoffs are this weekend (picture the World Cup for Canada- its hockey). You can come up with your own scenario. Would this be a bad time to attempt this???
Thanks to you all for your posts, moving those of us who are learners and scared to death to take the first step (I think there is probably many of us out there). You may not realize how much your words and stories help. I’m still afraid that I’m attempting this too soon and that I’m going to be the one that annoys the hell out of everyone (or worse, the one that has to be babied along) but as one of the musicians in town here told me, “sometimes you have to just jump in”. OK…maybe its only my big toe, but it’s a start. Maybe I can find a mask to wear... maybe a paper bag
Cuthail
PS Go Edmonton Oilers!
PPS I don’t even like hockey
PPSS Can one actually read abc without translating it?
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Cailin Rua
Re: "My first time"
Seriously, you won't know what to expect until you go. How can you ever expect to play at a session if you don't know what they are like? You can read as much as you want and learn as many tues as you can, but that won't mean you can play at a session. My point is go, you can't ever expect to be good enough for a session if you have never seen one.
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Why Bother?
Re: "My first time"
hey I'm heading up to Newfoundland next month. Im from Missouri.
Any good sessions you could tell me about, or points of interest where I should definatly go?
-Johnathan
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Harper_Lad
Re: "My first time"
Cuthail, I would say you should go, but maybe bring a mini disc or some type of recorder, instead of an inatrument, with you the first night. You can then study the pace, the tunes, the etiquette, in the privacy of your own place. It's a good idea to introduce yourself and ask if they would mind if you joined them at some stage to play. Most people will be delighted to see a new face. Once the ice is broken, its much easier to walk in with your chosen weapon. Try to learn a few of their tunes ......there's nothing as flattering as somebody making a real effort to fit in. Best of luck!
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Backer
Re: "My first time"
Hi Cuthail - as a fellow traveller on this road, i suggest you make yourself known to some of the members of the session you regularly (if you don't yet then you need to) go along to listen to.
.
Maybe in a break, when one of the musicians is getting the pints, have a chat with them at the bar or say gidday to a couple at the table. I'm sure that if they are good friendly encouraging types they will encourage you keep going, offer you grains of advice, or maybe just be welcoming. Maybe they'll ask you to play a few tunes yourself; some don't mind accommodating those who are new to the session thing by maybe playing a few tunes that that you know that might be outside their usual repertoir, and maybe a little slower too
It's pot luck here tho - they might not be interested in accommodating a newby. But they may still have useful advice, or may be just inspiring to listen to.
If there isn't room for you there... find another session that will suit you better; in terms of contributing to the tunes.
Good luck
Nathan
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Brown Creeper
Re: "My first time"
Cuthail, treat it like an invitation to a strangers party, ask can you join, be careful to listen the first week that you attend and make an effort to get to know the fellow musicians, as someone has already pointed out above.
If you enter a new session in a respectful manner, most players (but not all, so dont be upset) will really appreciate the fact that you took the time to listen and get a feel for their music, particularily if you are a backer. In the majority of cases, they will make you feel comfortable and wont mind if you are still a learner.
In my experience, most newbies flounder because they dont understand the basic manners involved in joining a session for the first time, for example, they will play constantly their own tunes, out of tune, too fast, too loudly etc.
The secret to making a session your regular, is to take your time, listen and decide if they play the music that you need to hear in order to improve yourself.
Good luck. I'm sure you will be fine.
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by blas
PPSS Can one actually read abc without translating it?
Yes! ~ And I suspect most of us here. I have known folks that couldn't read the dots but could read the ABC's, or one of its related forms, like tonic solfa... Using those letters in place of ABC's, so DRM's? And others ~ some read tablature but nothing else ~ and that exists for a lot of instruments, even a version in a sense for whistle and flute...
You have to appreciated something that has an established existence and history that predates your arrival... It helps to get some understanding... Another in some people enjoy is to take lessons with one of the regulars ~ one of the easiest ways to get that understatnding and a personal introduction...
But back to the main swing of this, with just a little effort, even less if you already read some form of notation, like the dots, the ABC's will come to you. Give it a try by first learning to play, say on your whistle, some basic tunes from the ABC's. Here's Steve Mansfield's excellent intro:
http://www.lesession.co.uk/abc/abc_notation.htm
For sessions it is a great tool because you can jot down a few bars on anything just to jog your memory later...
On the SESSION ~ Hey!, whatever your experience, and mostly it will be good, though I can tell you, especially if you are inexperienced, the one bad one seems to outweight everything else, so be on your guard and don't let a single event colour the whole, or try not too. That can be hard, but sometimes folks get in bad moods, which we know nothing about, and they might lash out at someone innocent like yourself and tell the to f-off... Don't take anything like that personally, or try not to. But, I suspect you won't have that problem. You've had some good suggestions given above.
I never go to a session for the first time to play. I always go the first time to listen. If it feels right I might scope the scene out a bit by asking some questions, and if the opportunity arises, make a point of meeting one of the regulars for a chat... Sometimes, because I love exercising my ears, I might make that visit several times before I ask if it is OK to join the 'inner circle'... That may sound funny, but some sessions they have almost 'assigned seating'...
But don't fear. What I was really meaning to say, is you've got this place here to share your experience, so let us know how it develops, and if you need consolation, a shoulder to weep on, or someone to cheer with or swear with, I know there is a huge selection of such folk here...
Be brave ~ and keep the humour ~ most people are by their basic nature kind ~ but there are things around us that can poison that intent for some, but mostly they are in the minority ~ 'c'
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: "My first time"
Go for it!
If it was one of our sessions you would be made feel welcome.
Tell the guys you are new to the scene and ask if it's ok to sit in.
One word of advice - a lot of newbie guitar players make the mistake of trying to impress and often end up playing too loud. As long as you play in a quiet and subtle manner and check out the keys with the other musos you should be OK.
BTW - what tuning are you using?
Good luck and ENJOY
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by breandan
Re: "Softly - Softly - Catchy - Monkey!"
I would certainly go along with the advice of Ceolachan & Backer on this one Cuthail. i.e. First time - go to listen!
For example, I attended my first ever Old Time session this week, in an old historic session pub in Co Down - Balloo House, which hosted, now legendary, ITM sessions in the 70s.
Anyway, I spent my time at the session just getting to know some of the guys & 'after asking their permission', recording some of the tune sets.
It went well & I now feel comfortable about going back again, once I have learned some of their sets. I think making the effort to learn some of their sets initially, shows the proper respect for their session.
After a while I may well, when asked, play one or two sets of my own but I feel, if you wish to become a regular friend of the session, treat it & the members wih some manners & respect & the chances are they'll welcome you with open arms.
Just remember it's their session - some of the regulars may well have been going there for many years.
Softly - Softly - Catchy - Monkey!
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by Ptarmigan
Re: "My first time"
I know how you are feeling. I played my at my first session the other night. I was very nervous as I am very new to the music scene. I play the bodhran and I was absolutley terrified. The other people in the session were very very welcoming. If I didn't know the song or thought I would mess it up I jusy didn't play. It was the most fun I have had in a very long time. And to my surprise they did not say don't come back. LOL
Good luck
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by waterloorotty
Re: "My first time"
Damn, Ptarm's playing old-time ~ in County Down...
Quick Cuthail, go, go, go, ask to record, ask if you can get some names for tunes, and please, come back and break the mystery. I'm on tender hooks to hear how it all pans out, and I'm rooting for you. You must have consideration in your heart or you wouldn't first ask us loonies for advice. With that kind of care and soft approach you will do well. If anybody gives you grief let us know, we'll form a possee and descend on them with cowboy boots, pearl button shirts, spurs and a YEEHA!!!
So Ptarm, have you got your red kerchief yet?
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: "My first time"
Ooh! ~ I'm having an awful hallucination of a ptarmigan dressed in cowboy gear, hat and all, and it just doesn't jibe...
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: "My first time"
It's definately a good idea to go listen and get a feel for things. I've been playing guitar at session for years and I can tell you that regardless of your level of playing ability, if you aren't listening to the tunes and getting a feel for them, you won't be able to back them. I've seen total beginners who come in and play really basic stuff that works well and I've seen good guitar players who don't know the music come in and mess up a whole session.
So, I guess what I am saying is, the most important thing is to make sure you know the tunes. Some of these tunes are very straight forward but some have some little suprises in them that if you just sit down and start playing, you will miss. I can't tell you how many guitarists I've seen that have picked up on the simple A part of a tune that is in D major and just started playing along; only to miss the fact that the B part jumps into G or something.
The best advice I was ever given was that these tunes survived for years without any backing. If you don't know the tune, it will survive another day without it. Most importantly, just be friendly and considerate of others and you will be welcome at most sessions.
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by locrian
Re: "My first time"
Great advice locrian, there is nothing finer than a considerate accompanist, one who doesn't push the tempo, and someone who has a sense of key and an ease in their way, as happy to sit out and listen and appreciate the music, as to appreciate it with their accompaniment... Like with any percussion, if there are several strummers, then, once you do start joining in, do it sparingly, only what you know and are comfortable with, and take turns, which doesn't mean every thing going gets an accompaniment. Take turns with silence too, and give it more than your share...ears remaining open...
Here you go Ptarm:
http://www.sillyjokes.co.uk/dress-up/acc/misc/bandana.html
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by ceolachan
"Red Bandana" ~ Randy Newman
Album: "Land Of Dreams"
Left Los Angeles a short while ago
Flew 'cross the country back to Buffalo
Walked around through the sleet and the snow
With a red bandana on my head
Saw my momma on 12th and Grand
Standing in the alley with the junkyard man
They were both so loaded they could hardly stand
Talkin' 'bout going to Mexico
I said "Momma I was born
Out there I was born again
Been clear to California and back
Was out there so long many times I thought I was dead"
She said, "Sonny what's that you got wrapped around your head?"
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's from Hollywood USA
~ etc...
# Posted on June 16th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: "My first time"
Stay at home and watch Carolina win the hockey.
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by bodhran bliss
Re: "My first time"
Love the advice. Maybe it's like joining a motorway in your car - you have to approach carefully and fit in with the speed of everyone around you and then people magically make room for you. Barging in (or being too timid) will cause a bit of disruption and chaos!
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by Mark Harmer
Re: "My first time"
I'll be back home for two weeks in July from the 7 to the 21. If you're from the Avalon anywhere let me know where there are any good sessions going on these days as I'd love to join in. I'm from a small town out that way and haven't been home in ten years(waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyy too long). With a nod and a wink I'll be on me way skippin along the ballycars and tryin not to get a switchin from me mudder!
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by newfie percussionist
Re: "My first time"
Hi all- thanks for your many great posts. You’re all fantastic! I’m especially loving the posse- reminds me of a song “You’re still just a Newf in a Calgary hat”.
So, here’s the plan for tonight. I have a friend whose leaving the province after this weekend (the perils of island life) and wants to go to a session before he leaves (last Newfoundland hurrah). I’ve jammed with him and he’s very good and suspect he won’t have any problems fitting in. I don’t know if two people descending on a session is a good idea or not, but its nice for me to have someone for support and spend the time with him before he goes. I plan very much to mind my p’s and q’s and take all your very wise advice about asking to join, not playing too loudly (softly catching monkeys). Still certain that I’m not going to play myself (I love the idea of noting sets, and doing my homework). I’m in no hurry.
For Breandan- I mostly have been regular tuning, have done some dropped d but never tried double dropped d. What would be preferred?
For Newfie percussionist - I am on the Avalon (in St. John’s) and as far as I know there are only two or three sessions on a regular basis. One at O’Reilly’s on George Street (Sat 7-10), Erin’s on Water Street (Fridays). I’m not sure but I think I saw them posted in the sessions section. There may be others happening at the Ship but I think they are fairly infrequent and very elite. And I should mention that there is always The Folk Arts Council Folk Night at the Ship on Wednesdays.
Harper Lad- you’re in for a grand time when you get here. Session info is above and I can set you in the direction of things to do and places to go. Try this to start. http://www.newfoundlandandlabradortourism.com/home.zap it will give you some of the places and festivals but I think you’ll find it best if you go off the beaten path. For some reason I didn’t even see the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival posted there which will be Aug 4-6. I’m not sure if I have a link to my email, but you are welcome to contact me if you want more details.
Waterloorotty- thanks for sharing your great story (gives me hope).
Bodhran bliss- how could you!?!
Will let you all know how things go.
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by Cailin Rua
Newfoundland & St. John's Sessions ~
Only two regular sessions listed here so far, both St. John's ~
Erin's Pub
http://www.thesession.org/sessions/display/339
Contact: Buck, a C#/D melodeon player from St. John's. Now that is a set of keys I love...
http://www.thesession.org/members/display/6013
O'Reilly's
http://www.thesession.org/sessions/display/238
Contact: Whamlyn, alias Wes, whistle, guitar and flute ~ from St. John's ~ hmmm, I like that too, flute and the music of Newfoundland...
http://www.thesession.org/members/display/108
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by ceolachan
Newfoundland & the St. John's Session ~
It is always a good thing to have a friend on hand, wise move... Just so long as they aren't a scraper looking for a fight...
My heart is with you, best wishes...
# Posted on June 17th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: First time player
Well it happened. I did it and I’m still grinning about it this morning. Wow! What a time! We arrived a little early and got invited to sit in very quickly by a very nice bodhran player so my first worry was over (no need to call in the Irish bandana-ed posse- thanks guys!). By the time things started there was quite a collection of musicians and instruments including uilleann pipes, small pipes/whistle, flute, accordion, concertina, a couple of bodhrans (one from Waterford, Ireland), 4 fiddles (including one from Waterford and another from Spain), four guitar players (really 3 and a fraction if you include me
and a harmonica player from France. Wow, wow, wow!
I did a lot of listening and watching, took a few notes (and left my little tune book behind), and I asked a few questions about tune names (but nobody seemed to know any of the names!). And then I did what I didn’t think I would do, or could do- I JOINED IN! I did what I could and played what I thought was right and finally understood why there is no sheet music or tab available, its all about really about what you hear and what you feel (there are many right notes and you immediately recognize those that are wrong). I even felt pretty good about a couple of tunes. Through all my worry going into the session, the irony was my guitar was quite inaudible, almost even to me (no worries about this one playing too loudly in sessions- somehow I have a silent guitar!). A blessing in disguise as I get accustomed to playing in this forum. Will worry more about recognizing keys and tempo before I worry too much about volume. If anyone even noticed that I was slow on the changes or played the wrong chord, they were very, very kind and didn’t say a word. We were in fairly tight quarters, some in danger of being skewered in the eye by our neighbours’ bow, but when I offered to give up my seat for one of the pipe players who sat on some stairs, he told me to stay and that it was the best seat he had had in a while. So that is, no one asked me to leave, even when I gave them the chance, no dirty looks or comments on lack of skill or experience. There wasn’t even the notice of the many eyes from the crowd of pub patrons- there was only a wonderful, amazing opus of sound and a lot of very happy faces.
I have much work and practice to do before I can really contribute; I know I couldn’t have held my own if there were fewer musicians or had been the only guitar. I did it though, had a wonderful time and will hopefully get to do it again.
Also for those that were inquiring about sessions in St. John's I found out there is another regular session at Bridie Malloy's (George Street; Sunday 4:00)!
Glad I didn’t stay home to watch the hockey game
# Posted on June 18th 2006 by Cailin Rua
THE AFTERMATH ~
Halellujah!!!! I am all grins... I am happy for you. I just thought, maybe we need an initiation rite, like what they do when you cross the equator the first time ~ well, maybe not?
One practice some folks have who have quiet instruments, like mandolins, concertinas, etc., or if they are quiet players, and I've even known a few percussionists / bodhran players who did likewise, is to sit on the edge of a session, so you can hear yourself better and catch the blend more clearly...
But hell, what am I saying, you're now a veteran... Congrats!!! ~ And MANY HAPPY RETURNS!!!!
Oh yeah, that is such a nice write-up you've made, I hope you add it to the sessions 'comments'. I know if I had a session going I would be chuffed if someone wrote something like that for it. Like with things at Amazon, recommendations, 'informed' recommendations, one's with heart and spirit ~ are always a welcomed read... WARNING ~ if you don't do it, well, it is that good that I would be tempted to. It deserves the repeat, or something similar...
Don't forget to add the new session, but better yet, if you know someone who is a long term attendee ~ ask them to add it on here so others coming your way will know there's a welcome...
# Posted on June 18th 2006 by ceolachan
O'Reilly's ~
http://www.thesession.org/sessions/display/238
# Posted on June 18th 2006 by ceolachan
Re: Aftermath
Aah...Ceolachan, I think I'm blushing. Thanks so much for your words of encouragment and pearls of wisdom. Because you are such a kind celtic heart I will do as you have requested and repost the note (or perhaps its because you so persuasively threatened )
The fun has just begun!
# Posted on June 19th 2006 by Cailin Rua
Re: "My first time"
Cuthail, I think your guitar playing will take off real soon. Keep coming to the sessions and we'll make room for you.
Signed
One of the Bodhran players
PS The session at Bridie Molloy's was great on June 25/06
At one point there were 19 players with three sets of uilleann pipes in the mix. Always a good time.
# Posted on June 27th 2006 by Aub