Thanks folks you've given me some good, sound advice. I've only just acquired the instruments (am I OK to call them instruments?) and because I'm aware of the amount of noise they can make I wondered how many people would find them acceptable at sessions. I also agree with you Gnomad when you say "...that hostility is frequently aroused by people who assume that because such instruments are often given to children there is no skill required to play them." I know that some people don't like them and obviously I'll use judgement etc.

Oakley, I don't believe you!

Well Kaleea, I have been learning the Violin/fiddle for the last 18 months but do not feel I yet have the confidence to take it to a session. My main instrument is my voice and when the singing stops I want to still join in the fun, when appropriate. Are you telling me that I should just keep quiet?

Guest, thank you for your comments and your sensitivity in the final paragraph.

As for those who think they are for children, I disagree. I've seen some fantastic tambourine and shaky egg players. I've seen them used with sensitivity and vitality, I've heard them being used to lift a song/tune and to add a different texture. I have practised with them in terms of rhythm, noise etc and it's my opinion that they take skill to use.

Carole