Irish traditional music sessions are informal gatherings at which people play or sing Irish traditional music. The general session scheme is that someone starts a tune, and those who know it join in. Typically, the first tune is followed by another two or three tunes in a set, or medley of tunes. After a while the set comes to an end and after a brief interval, someone else starts another set of tunes. Sometimes there are more-or-less recognized session leaders; sometimes there are no leaders. Sessions are often held in pubs and everyone who is able to play Irish music on an instrument is welcomed; 'grab your instrument and join along'. The objective in a session is not to provide music for an audience. The music is for the musicians themselves.
Socially, sessions (Seisiún in Gaelic) have often been compared to an evening of playing card games, where the conversation and cameraderie are an essential component. In many rural communities in Ireland, sessions are an integral part of community life.
Sessions are an excellent way to witness the real, amorphous identity of Irish traditional tunes."
