I've been herding a mixed session for nearly twenty years. Its mostly trad, but newer pieces are not unwelcome if they're good.

These sessions work for several reasons. First, some of us have been musically associated for over thirty years, thus lending more understanding of each others musical bent. Second, most of the regular instrumentalists are also singers. Third, the singers usually do songs that invite accompaniment. Fourth, the session is more like a melee with very few set routines or guidelines. The flow is very free, albeit somewhat chaotic.

The mix of songs and tunes varies from week to week, often depending on who is or is not there. Some of the regulars are part of a Celtic ensemble. If they have a gig, there tends to be more singing. If a particularly good instrumentalist drops by, the tunes may predominate.

Essentially, I try to keep it balanced which is not always easy. Sometimes the shy ones need to be invited to take a lead whether song or tune. If there seems to be too long a stretch of one or the other, I try to shift directions by requesting a specific song or tune.

These sessions are far from perfect, but better than none at all. Perhaps some of the Mudcatters who have been to one could chime in with commentary and observation -- Tom