Pub Session - Etiquette

Etiquette

There are "open sessions", when anyone who wishes can play, and "closed sessions", where the playing is restricted to a group. The general rules are fairly simple, but depend on the kind of session. In general, pub sessions are not places for learning an instrument. It is expected that those taking part have attained competence in playing their instrument. Some sessions are wholly instrumental while others will engage the crowd with singing. It is customary to introduce oneself to the other participants before joining in. There will usually be a leader or oldest member who sets the tone and keeps the session running smoothly; often leader(s) do not appear to be leaders at all. Occasionally, even the leaders of a session may not realize that they lead.

Practically, however, there are always leaders at a session, by the nature of human dynamics. Some sessions follow a round-robin structure, others have a more free-for-all approach, and the leader(s) of a session should be observed to see how this particular session is run. A session is as much about the crowd as it is about the performers. It is not unusual for a neophyte singer to get the greatest crowd response due to the passion and courage they have brought to the session. Due to freeform nature of the session, there is always an element of serendipity and there is an atmosphere of anticipation and an expectation of tolerance from all present.

Listen to how the event is developing and in general keep to the sort of repertoire being played or sung. Adopting a fake accent (American, Irish, Scottish, English, etc.) for the duration of a song is probably the most embarrassing possible mistake for a singer; it is generally felt that this shows a lack of taste, discernment, and a distressing pretention, marking the singer out as a poseur (a person whou does not truly understand the style). For the instrumentalist there is no such restriction. You should not sing over the top of a singer who is leading a song but you may join in and add to the 'air' of the song.

It is frowned upon when one openly criticises people who know only one song or only a few tunes. Sessions are occasions to be enjoyed by all participants and if others are accepted members of the group, it's not up to one person (other than the leaders of the session) to decide that they are not welcome.