we used to have a regular weekly session (15/20+ years) until the new publican filled the place with "gaming" aka gambling machines & other stuff. We found a few new locations, but none worked (one publican said we didn't drink enough!)

then we went to regular monthly sessions at a friend's place - now these sessions take place in a club.

We also have a regular monthly shanty session on the Tall Ship "James Craig" in the Maritime Museum.

Format is always around the 'circle' under the guidance of a MC/leader - sing, pass or request. We have the same regular core of strong singers at both sessions & an assortment of chorus singers (including me!) & some listeners & visitors.

In the main we follow by turn, but sometimes someone sings a song that provokes an answer.

And a good time is had by all.

sandra


The People Have Songs
written & sung by Miguel Heatwole

When I wrote The People Have Songs in late 1997 I wanted to celebrate a cultural practice of great importance to me - the singing session. For any who don't know, sessions are an exhilarating do-it-yourself phenomenon found at all the best folk festivals. In this case however it was a particular weekly gathering at an inner Sydney pub called the Glengarry Castle that was my chief inspiration. Every Friday night a core group of regulars, visitors and passers-by would share (mainly folk) songs with each other, frequently filling the bistro with almost tangible layers of harmony.

Some have described it as an anthem for singing sessions, but I often look on it as a manual giving content and etiquette. I went to England and found it emblazoned on a socialist choir's banner so maybe the former is true. My friends have flattered me with two fine parodies. I'll stop bragging now...

      Here voices are tuned to each other in gladness
      To all here in common affection belongs
      Here joy and laughter meet keening and sadness
      Here tyranny's cursed for the people have songs

      Let us set the room ringing with the sound of our singing
      When we come to the end let us hold the chord long
      Hear the harmonies rise and all close our eyes
      'Til the last cadence dies the people have songs

      Here is war parting sweethearts
      Here are strong sweating sailors
      And poets for beauty who ardently long
      Here are people at work singing loud at their labours
      Here are marriage and drinking for the people have songs

      Respect for each other gives each one a hearing
      And whether the voice be uncertain or strong
      We listen with love if the heart is endearing
      Supported in harmony the people have songs

      Disdaining oppression like others before us
      Our gentleness angered by history's wrongs
      Our tradition endures, and our voices in chorus
      Are lifted in hope for the people have songs!