I would like to know how to find “sessions” near Dunfermline, Scotland.
AND … as I am a real novice, how much music do you have to know, etc.
Well, for starters, go here:
thesssion.org session listing for Scotland
Narrow it down for your region. 
These people might know of some area sessions too:
http://www.visitdunfermline.com/business/65/Dunfermline_Folk_Club_-_Thistle_Tavern/
Start going to sessions as soon as you can. As a real newbie, you probably shouldn’t try to play very much, but you can absorb a lot of music by just hanging out. Different sessions vary as to how experienced the players are. I go to one occasionally (not all Celtic music) and anyone from rank beginner to pro can feel free to join in. At others, the pace is 'way too fast for newbies.
If the musicians are agreeable, you might bring a recorder, and make yourself a recording of the tunes.
Then you can learn the tunes at home, from the recording, at your leisure.
–James
peeplj wrote:
“if the musicians are agreeable, you might bring a recorder, …”
I came over all faint when I read this.
Thank goodness I quickly realised what you were saying !! 