I'm normally too busy playing to sing in sessions, but I was staying with a few friends in Portland (I live near Newcastle) a few days ago, and we sang in a session then. It was a relatively short song in two part harmony, which appeared to go down reasonably well. Shambles, if you remember, I was the one in the yellow top who was mostly playing flute. We sing in sessions where I live, but the songs are normally tunes such as Maggie in the Wood which also have words. I have been to sessions which appear to be combined with singarounds - unfortunately, the general opinion there seemed to be not to bother asking anybody to sing unless they played guitar. As a pianist (who'd accidentally left her piano at home, but does sing unaccompanied), I found that a bit annoying. Most people I've met seem to agree that anyone calling themself a musician will be able to appreciate a well-sung song, though. As to bodhran players? I haven't ever been to a session where they were unwelcome.

Ruthie