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A Session (seisun in Gaelic) is a gathering of traditional musicians for the purpose of celebrating their common interest in the music by playing it together in a relaxed, informal setting…. It works like this: One musician starts playing a tune, and whoever knows the tune joins in and plays along.” – Field Guide to the Irish Music Session – Barry Foy

The Session Stage is known for welcoming folks from all skill levels that are interested in playing. Sessions last about 90 minutes, with a 15 minute break between each session. Each session is unique, with the hosts of the session setting the tone and ground rules. There is a secure place to store your instruments out of the rain and sun while you enjoy the Festival between playing or singing at the session.

STREET SESSIONS PERFORMERS

Sessions

Celtic Song Circle

If you like to sing, these are the sessions for you! Anyone is welcome to come lead a song, join in on the choruses, or just sit and listen. Acappella mainly, but if you’d like to accompany yourself, that’s just fine. Led by Sharon Carl and Elizabeth Townsend, we focus…
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

Youth-Led Session

This session is led by young fiddlers and other musicians ranging in age from 8 to 22. They may be young in age but they are old in experience. Just try to keep up with these hot players!
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

Starry Plough Session Players

Open traditional Irish music session with breaks for singers, hosted by session players from the famous Starry Plough in Berkeley. They welcome you to lead a set, sing a song or just follow along.
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers

Formed in 1986 by Alasdair Fraser, SFSF is now a musical family of more than 300 musicians of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. They gather throughout the year to share the joy of playing music from the enduring Scottish tradition. Spontaneity is a key element, and they delight in breaking…
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

Nevada County Kitchen Session

This Session is hosted by musicians who have played together for years on Sunday afternoons and can now be found at the Lucchesi Wine Tasting room in downtown Grass Valley on the 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month 3-6 p.m.  They play a variety of Celtic traditional tunes and often just…
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

Chico Session

These folks have hosted a session Friday afternoons at Duffy’s Tavern for many years.  They like to play tunes at “Donegal speed” so be warned.  A fun session with excellent players.
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023
Sessions

Auburn Session with Pete & Phyllis Grant

Many of the players have hosted this lively session in Auburn for over a decade. They currently play every Sunday night at Sierra Grill Smokehouse in Auburn on Grass Valley Hwy 6-9 p.m. The Auburn Session includes tunes, songs and lots of laughter.
Ethan Eller
February 22, 2023