I’m a Hungarian student. This Autumn I’ll go to Ireland, to Dublin for three month.
During this time I would like to play at sessions as much time as I could; (I play the Irish flute for ten years, and for a half year I’ve been learning how to play the Uilleann pipes). The main problem: I’m not a very talented and skilled player. Many people told me that at Irish sessions those people who could not play at certain level are kindly asked to leave are at least to cease playing.
So I am looking for sessions, and my primary point of view is: if I am not as good as I should be not being fired from that place. (If there are some tunes that are very much liked at a certain place, I try to learn them as good as I only can. I would be most happy if I am allowed to play only some tunes at the sessions). (Of course I do not plan to try with Uilleann pipes too, but I’ll bring them with me anyway ).
The secondary point of view: as often as it is possible. (I try to gain as much practice as possible).
I would be most grateful for any help.
Ps.:
If somebody knows a cheap accomodation at Dublin I would be very grateful for that also!
You will always get a session in O’Donahue’s bar just off St Stephens Green. Home of the Dubliners there is music there every night and whilst it sometimes takes on the guise of a gig as this bar is one of the tourist attractions of Old Dublin, they are very accommodating and anyone is welcome.
The other one I know of is Rosie O’Grady’s pub which is on Harold’s Cross Road in Kenilworth. Thursday nights from about 9.00. Can get quite busy. There is usually a tune list as well so it might appera a bit ‘organised’
Where ever you go, you can be sure of a warm welcome though. Ther is a sometime contributor to this forum from Dublin, goes by the moniker of ‘dublingirl’ Search out the memberlist and you might like to try an make contact.
There’s a pub called the Cobblestone in Smithfield which has groups of different abilities. If you visit them and talk to the barman he’ll find something to suit you.
).