The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #54694   Message #849262
Posted By: GUEST,Tyghress
17-Dec-02 - 06:56 PM
Thread Name: New England Shanty Sessions
Subject: RE: New England Shanty Sessions
As a tune-type, I think I want to interject here. . .a song-based session is fine. . .but when there is a regular session (meaning every week), and the same 2 or three people sing the same songs, over and over. . .not necessarily any particular key propagated through the rendition. . .musicians of all varieties tend to want to tear hair.

When a tune player starts a tune, and a singer decides that it was a personal invitation. . .

When a singer steps to the mike, and the accordion player decides that a little oom-pah to set the mood is in order. . .

When a singer starts a melody, and the bodhran player thinks that it should be done a little faster. . .

The best sessions I've been to are lead firmly by someone who has social skills above the mere mortal, and can direct inappropriate behavior, subtlely if possible, sternly if necessary, and rudely if none of the above work. Best of luck! Too bad Portsmouth is too far for this Cat.