Photo credit: Bridge Barker
Glenties musician Tara Connaghan will this week launch a new podcast talking all things Irish trad.
Tara, who has over 35 years of experience playing in Irish traditional music sessions, will launch “In Tune with Tradition – Perspectives on Session Etiquette in Irish Traditional Music” at the Willie Clancy Summer School on Sunday 6th July.
World renowned Gweedore artist Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh of Altan will be doing the honours of launching the series.
The podcast explores the unwritten rules, traditions, and evolving customs of Irish traditional music sessions through conversations with a diverse range of voices. The first episode features Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh herself, with upcoming episodes showcasing perspectives from celebrated musicians such as Martin Hayes, Harry Bradley, Enda Scahill, Donal O’Connor, Leonard Barry, Luke Daniels, Shannon Heaton and many more. The series also features singers, dancers, adult improver musicians, teenage musicians, bar owners and staff, musicians from other genres, international musicians, Barry Foy (who wrote the Field Guide to the Irish Music Session 25 years ago) and session enthusiasts from all walks of life.
“If you have ever wondered what others think about session etiquette, or worried that you might have breached some session rules, this is the podcast for you,” says Tara Connaghan. “People can also go to the website www.sessionetiquette.
Listeners can expect a rich tapestry of stories, opinions, and advice from those who shape and enjoy the vibrant world of Irish traditional music sessions. The podcast is designed not only to entertain but also to foster understanding and community among musicians and music lovers worldwide.
Being from an area celebrated for its rich fiddle tradition, Tara brings a deep understanding of session culture and the social dynamics that shape it. Her professional background includes serving as Traditional Arts Co-ordinator in the Clare Arts Office, an Arts Council Deis advisor and Festival Director of the Éigse Carlow Arts Festival, roles through which she has supported and promoted Irish traditional music at both local and national levels.
