There are many pubs in Cork City which advertise music nights. Get out into the villages - with an instrument and ask if you can play. One or two tunes/songs and the locals will be there with you. The Inis Cara Bar just outside Cork is one. Kay the landlady will probably welcome you and even sing a couple of songs herself if you ask.

Motorways in Ireland improved rapidly over the last few years. Dublin to Cork simples - and return. Fast and smooth and not much traffic. Sligo, Mayo etc. walk into a pub with an instrument and you will probably be invited to give them a tune.

Have a good time - we always have a great time and are made very welcome as are our sailing friends though village pubs on the whole better than major towns.