If you have an old vinyl copy of John Doonan "Flute for the Feis" have a listen. Everything played at dance speed and in perfect time. I use it as my reference point and yes, I do find most sessions play too fast.

My other great influence was Pat Nealy from Humberston who was also a player for the dance. Now sadly gone for many years he could play a reel for an hour and the dancers at the end got the same chance as those at the beginning.

Steve