Bob -

Here are some sessions in the immediate SF bay area for Penny to consider. (MichaelR is more up on what's happening in the North bay scene than me, so I'll that info to him, but I hear there's good stuff going on up his way).

Every Sunday night: Irish session at the Starry plough Irish Pub, in Berkeley, corner of Shattuck and Prince streets, 8pm to usually around 12:30, though there's no official ending time. This session is led by Irish singer and guitar player Shay Black. Tunes and singing. You'll find local 'Catters such as the Swans and myself, on rare occasion BSeed, others. Food and a good assortment of beers are sold, and free beer for the session players.

Sunday and Tuesday nights: The Plough and Stars Irish Pub, San Francisco, at Clement street near 2nd Avenue. Tunes.This pub is the hub of Irish music in the area, as there's live Irish music gigs on the other nights.

Wednesday night Irish session, San Francisco. PM Radriano for details.

Third Saturday of every month: Scottish fiddle session, hosted by the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers (founded by Alasdair Fraser). in members homes, 2pm til whenever. Other instruments very welcome.
potluck dinner. PM me for contact info.

....and if she likes to sing, there's lots going on, including the chantey sing at Hyde Street Pier, aboard the 1886 square-rigger Balclutha (which I host). First Saturday of every month, 8pm to midnight. Free, but reservations taken. Info at (415) 556-6435.

Chanteyranger