Music session

Not to be confused with Session musician.

A Music session, traditional music session or simply session is a term often used to describe a social gathering of musicians. Sometimes a music session is referred to as a jam session. Much of the music at such events revolves around traditional music for the area or popular songs. A suitable venue might be a local hotel, public bar, village hall or private home. The events usually occur at regular intervals and weekday is normally chosen so that it does not interfere with paid weekend gigs. At a session musicians usually play or sing for pleasure and simply socialise with each other. Frequently the musicians are unpaid and the players and singers are under no obligation to attend. However, some musicians (usually experienced) are paid to 'lead' a session and to encourage others to join in. Leaders also help to ensure that there will be music for members of the public who might wish to listen without participating. The hospitality of the landlord is very important. Sometimes he or she might offer a round of drinks or tea, coffee and food. This small token of friendship is very often appreciated by musicians.

Music Session and Culture

The music session forms an important part of Scottish and Irish culture (see Irish traditional music session). Often such events form an integral part of music festivals. The festival will often consist of a series of concerts by local, well known or famous bands or entertainers. It is quite common for the local amateurs and touring professional musicians to meet after the concerts and have a "session" late in the evening. It is not uncommon for the sessions to continue into the following day.

Instruments

Usually traditional sessions are based around acoustic instruments. In Scotland as in Ireland the most popular instruments include guitar, violin, accordion, mandolin, pipes, whistle, and sometimes double bass. Because of the inherent weakness of sound produced by an acoustic guitar, guitarists often experience difficulty being heard over the top of much louder instruments such as violins and accordions. A small amplifier is often necessary to bring the guitar up to audible level. However, there are a number of traditionalists who resent amplified music.