No problems with high standard of musicianship.... or any level of music making - that's what sessions are all about!

The thread to me just looks like a total rip off -- pay £57 and "Ill show you how to play and act at sessions" - Sessions are just that a group of people getting together to make music and open house for everyone who makes music - on whatever instrument - are welcome to join in. Teaching people to play in public is teaching them how to perform.... not session playing, a session is just socialising with music!!!!!

The "Beginners session" put down beginners from the start "Raw beginners will certainly get left behind, but anyone who basically knows their way around an instrument is welcome." that sound like preaching to the converted...

"To ensure a reasonable balance of different instruments on the course, we reserve the right to accept or refuse applications on that basis". Maybe but any good session wouldn't!!!! Open to all whatever they play - and if you've got 10 bodharans so what!!!

"One of our sessions" would be one of the hundreds of locations I have played throughout the World both in pubs/clubs and festivals - the same attitude is held - if there's a session you'll be welcome - with your instrument or voice No charge no rules just join in lead listen learn enjoy making music with like minded people........

I DO NOT RIDICULE MUSICIAN IN PUBLIC OR ANYWHERE ELSE!!!! and sessions are packed as it is - with always room for more!!!! who will be welcome without a certificate!!!!   I haven't barred or played in a session where anyone is barred neither would I want to!!!!

The playing by ear and bring a music stand was from the first posting not from anything I said I only commented on the contradiction in terms!!!!!!!!

I still think if someone wants to invest £57 they should use it in petrol and beer get around the many session in this country and "learn" from the people that go along.... They WILL be welcomed and implying they won't so they sign up for a course in playing at what after all is a FREE FOR ALL is very presumptuous!

Please Don't misquote me or make up scary tales about bogeymen at sessions who will ridicule newcomers - its remarks that scare beginners and stop them from coming to sessions - mind you it might also persuade them to go for paid courses - maybe this was the reason behind your comments??????

I have been playing in sessions for over 50 years and anyone who knows me will tell you I'm the first to welcome newcomers to sessions and offer both help and encouragement - without payment! and so do 99% of the other musicians I have played with over the years.......