Avon

Session in Bath

Alternate Wednesdays at The Packhorse, Old School Hill, South Stoke, Bath BA2 7DU

An English music session, starting at 8:30 pm.

Contact: Chris Timson on 01225 864706 or Web: http://EnglishMusicPlayedHere.org.uk


Session in Bradford on Avon

Alternate Mondays, at The Swan Hotel, 1 Church St, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. BA15 1LN

English session, starting at 8:30 pm.

Contact: Chris Timson on 01225 864706 or Web: http://EnglishMusicPlayedHere.org.uk


Sessions in Bristol

Every Tuesday, Irish music session at the Beaufort Arms, 23 High Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2YF, at 9:00.

A well established traditional Irish music session going back more than 15 years.

Contact: Rupert: rupertpeploe@yahoo.co.uk


First Monday of the month at The Inn On The Green, 2 Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol. BS7 0PA

8:30, mainly English traditional singing..

Contact: Harry Langston: harrylangston@blueyonder.co.uk


The weekly Tuesday 'Mainly English' music session has now relocated to the Golden Guinea, 19 Guinea Street, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6SX.  Parking nearby.

Starting from 8:30pm.  Mainly English.  All welcome.

Contact: Chris Legge on 0117 9293508 for further information.


Weekly Mondays at Three Tuns, St Georges Road.

Hosted by Gypsy's Kiss, mainly Irish but all music welcomed.

Contact: gypsyskiss@blueyonder.co.uk


Bedfordshire

Session in Ampthill:

Second Wednesday of the month at the Albion, 36 Dunstable Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire, MK45 2JT

Good English session, from 8:00 pm, in an excellent traditional pub – 12 real ales, 3 real ciders, no canned music ever!

Contact: Taz Tarry: taztarry@btinternet.com


Buckinghamshire

Session in Coleshill:

Fourth Sunday at The Red Lion, Village Road, Coleshill, nr Amersham HP7 0LH

Mainly English, but all welcome. Occasional song provided we can join in!

Contact: Susan Bell 020 8954 5840, email susanbell@tesco.net


Cambridgeshire

Sessions in:

Thursdays from 8.30 to 11 at the Plough and Fleece Community Pub, High Street, Horningsea, Cambridge CB25 9JG.  Singaround and tunes.  Everyone very welcome.

Contact: Tony at tonyjphillips@live.co.uk or 07764922385


Chatteris, The Honest John: Third Mondays 9pm.

Contact: Keith Cheale 01354 652868


Cottenham, Jolly Millers: Second Mondays. 9pm.

Contact: Graham Steward 01353 778655


Ely, Lamb Hotel: 8.45pm Last Monday

Contact: Andy Wall 01353 664706


Soham, Folk at the Fountain: First Monday 8.30

Contact: Graham Steward 01353 778655


Cambridge, The Boot: Histon High Street. First Tuesdays 8.30pm. Crofters Folk.

Contact: Dave Benford 01223 880553


Great Wilbraham, Carpenters Arms: First Tuesdays.

Contact: Helen Strudwick 01223 207434


March, British Legion Club: Rookswood Rd. Third Wednesdays 8pm.

Contact: Brian Gowler 01354 656094



Whittlesey, Bricklayer's Arms, Station Rd. Second Friday. 8pm No Smoking Folking. BYO drinks.

Contact: Martin & Sandra Green. 01733 206627



Cheshire

Session in Stockport

Sunday Lunchtime, 1 - 4pm at The Plough, Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, Stockport.

An acoustic session playing Folk, Country, Blues & Bluegrass.  We will have a great welcome ready for all, and would welcome your support.

Contact: Patrick - patrick.oconnor19@btinternet.com  Tel: 0161 442 5800, Mobile: 07711 833 144


Session in Stockport

Second and third Wednesdays of the month. Ye Olde Vic, Chatham St, Stockport.  8:30

Mainly English, all welcome.

Contact: Peter Hood on 0161 432 4142


Bluegrass session in Helsby

Fans of bluegrass might like to know of a lively little scene around Helsby in north-west Cheshire. There are practice sessions for apprentice pickers in the Horse and Jockey on a Thursday night, a full blown session for the big lads on Tuesdays and regular concerts with top name artistes at the Ex-Serviceman's Club.

Contact: Bryn Williams on 01928 723256, or Stuart Williams on 01928 72658.
E-mail hop@beeb.net/     Website: http//hop.members.beeb.net/



Cornwall

Session in Penzance

Thursdays, 8pm-10pm, Admiral Benbow, 46 Chapel Street, Penzance, Cornwall. TR18 4AF

The little-known repertoire of tunes from Cornwall from the past four centuries, including jigs, reels, hornpipes, polkas, waltzes, furries and five-steps.  Includes some accompanied songs.  A lively and fast-paced session, often including Cornish dancing.

Contact: pzsession@cornishtrad.com also: https://cornishtrad.com/penzance/




Cumbria

Session in Kendal

Second Tuesday, 8-10:30 at the Riflemans Arms, 4-6 Greenside, Kendal LA9 4LD

Good cheap real ale.  Mainly tunes from the Lake District.

Contact: Carolyn Francis, 07974507585


Session at Grange-over-Sands

First Friday of every month, 8pm till closing time, at the Keg & Kitchen, Main Street, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 6AB.

It's an open session, everyone welcome, in a great pub with a really friendly atmosphere.  We've only just got it started (second one is this Friday) and we could really do with getting getting the word out!

Contact: Steve - urchin@phonecoop.coop


Derbyshire

Session in West Hallam:

First Thursday of the month at The Punch Bowl, The Village, West Hallam, Derbyshire.

An acoustic instrumental session, starts 8.30, all welcome.

Contact: Rich Buxton: greenfiddler2@tiscali.co.uk


Session in Whaley Bridge:

Third Tuesday of each month from around 8pm.  Cracken Session, at either the White Hart or Railway Inn in Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire SK23 7AA (check website for specific venue: http://www.hilltop-cottage.info/cracken/session/)

Mostly English, with a fair mix of Scottish, French, Scandinavian, and N American.  Mostly tunes, with the occasional song.

Hosted by members of Cracken Morris, contact: bag@crackenmorris.org.uk


Devon

Sessions:

First Sunday - Lunchtime. The Dolphin, Barbican, Plymouth.  This all kinds session kicks off at 1:30 and doesn't stop until they are done in.


Third Thursday - 8:00 The Royal Oak, South Brent, just off the A38.  Mixed sesh with plenty of driving dance music and songs.  Not for the feint hearted!


Last Thursday - 8:00 The Church House Inn, Rattery, near Buckfastleigh.  Good mixed session with an abundance of concertinas.


Tuesdays - 8:30 The Queens Arms, Dartington, Totnes.  Mainly Irish with songs.


Wednesdays - 8:00 The Royal Oak, Malborough, Salcombe.  Long-lived session with all kinds of music and song catered for.


Second and last Saturdays - 8:00 The Top George, Combe Martin.  Hosted by big sing faves, Tom and Barbara Brown.


Dorset

Session in Maiden Newton

In the skittle alley at the Chalk & Cheese, Maiden Newton

Third Sundays, but phone first.  5:00 till 8:30 The pub closes at 9:00.

Nice old pub with real ale and a separate room to play in.  Mainly English, especially Dorset tunes, but we are flexible.

Contact: Ruth or Colin on 01300 321396


Session in Portland

First Sunday of every month in the Quarry Bar at the George Inn, Reforne, Portland, Dorset - from 5pm onwards.

It is a Trad Irish Session and all musicians and singers of the genre will be made very welcome.

Contact: Sian Thomas: castoffthebowlines@hotmail.com or www.facebook.com/irishsessionportlandgeorge


Essex

Sessions in Essex:

West Mersea, The Coast Inn, Thursdays, 8:30-11 pm

New Folk/Acoustic session on Mersea Island

Contact: Greg Dunn 07801 308054.  Website http://merseasession.blogspot.com/


Blackmore, The Bull: First Mondays 8:30pm.

Contact: Alan Francis 01279 864329 alan@folkmusic.org.uk


Great Waltham, Walnut Tree: Broads Green. First Monday.

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906


Littley Green, The Compasses: Third Monday 8.30pm.

Contact: Keith Cilvert 01245 474728


Chelsmford, United Brethren: New Writtle St. Tuesday 8.30.

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906


Great Bromley, Cross Inn: Fourth Wednesdays. Music & song 8pm.

Contact: 01206 230282


Aldham, Old Queens Head: Second Thursdays. Acoustic

Contact: 01206 241584


Ingatestone, Viper, Mill Green: Second Fridays

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906 gdl.prtnrs@virgin.net


Radley Green, Cuckoo: Fifth Fridays

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906 gdl.prtnrs@virgin.net


Tollesbury, Kings Head: Fourth Fri.

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906 gdl.prtnrs@virgin.net


Writtle, Wheatsheaf: Third Friday 8pm.

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906 gdl.prtnrs@virgin.net


Little Horkesley, Beehive: First Sunday lunchtime.

Contact: Mike Last 01206 271668


Maldon, Blue Boar Inn: Silver St. Second Sunday 8.30pm.

Contact: Fred Field 01621 868906


Gloucestershire

Song session in Stroud

Songs and ballads in traditional style - all welcome.

First, Third and Fifth Wedesdays of the month, 8:30 onwards, The Little Vic at The Queen Victoria, Gloucester Street, Stroud.

Contact: Bob Bray, Tel 01453 764885 or Rod Stradling, Tel 01453 759475.  E-mail: rod@mustrad.org.uk


Music and Song session in Stroud

Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, 8:30 onwards, The Bar, Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE

Contact: Paul McLaughlin, General Manager: 01453 760992   paul.mclaughlin@stroud.gov.uk   www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk


Hertfordshire

Session in Bulbourne

Grand Junction Arms in Bulbourne, near Tring, Herts

First Tuesday of every month.  Trad Irish music session - has been running for over 18 months and is well attended with a variety of players travelling from Milton Keynes, Northampton and Reading.

Contact: Chan Reid: c_m_reid@yahoo.com or http://grandjunctionarms.food.officelive.com/default.aspx


Kent

It has been suggested that, as sessions in Kent seem to change very frequently, I put a link to the KentFolk sessions page - which is updated monthly.

Sessions in Kent

But, in addition:

Session in Frittenden

Last Sunday of the month, from September to March, at the Bell & Jorrocks, Frittenden, TN17 2EJ.

A mixed songs and tunes session run by Gavin and Julie Atkin, statrting at 8:00.

Session in Horsmonden

First Sunday of the month, at The Gun, Horsmonden, TN12 8HT.

A mainly English tunes session run by Gavin and Julie Atkin, statrting at 8:00.

Contact: for both of the above, Gavin 07985 522734 or gmatkin@gmail.com


Lancashire

Session in Billinge

Every Thursday at the Masons Arms in Billinge

Biased slightly to Irish but well attended and a good pub to session in.

Contact: The pub: tel 01744 603572


Session near Chorley

Every Sunday at the Dressers Arms in Wheelton, near Chorley

Good English session.

Contact: The pub: tel 01254 830041


Session near Bolton

3rd Monday at the Chetham Arms, Chapeltown just north of Bolton.  8:30pm.  Mixed music but lots of English.

Contact: Tony Harrison: Tony@CEInstruments.co.uk


Session near Standish

2nd Sunday afternoon at The Crown, Worthington, near .  12 till 3pm.  English based.

Contact: Tony Harrison: Tony@CEInstruments.co.uk


Session in Southport

3rd Monday in the month at The Guest House, Union St, Southport.

A mixed music session with no hard & fast rules.  People can check before coming by looking on the Bothy website (www.bothyfolkclub.co.uk) under Diary.

Contact: Les Brown: lesb@btinternet.com


Session in Lancaster

Mixed music session in Lancaster every Thursday evening, 9:30 - 12:00

Gregson Centre, Moorgate, Lancaster.  (Upstairs room; turn right at the top of the stairs, in the door straight ahead at the end of the landing, get a drink before coming up).

English, Welsh, Scottish, Irish, Swedish, French ... with regular contributors playing mandolin, clarinet, recorder, pipes, pipe and tabor, guitar, concertina, fiddle, melodeon, whistle etc.  Anyone can join in, as long as 'they don't cock it up' (to quote entry for the Preston session).  Singers are welcome, as are people who only want to listen.  The more the merrier!

Contact: Rebecca Parris - rebeccaparris@hotmail.co.uk


Session in Lancaster

Irish music session in Lancaster every Tuesday evening

Three Mariners, Bridge Lane (top of St Georges Quay), Lancaster

Contact: Gordon Johnston - gordonjohnston717@gmail.com


Leicestershire

Session in Kegworth

Third Friday of the month at the Red Lion, Kegworth, DE74 2DA.

Tunes from any tradition welcome.

Contact: lyn_cooper@hotmail.com



London

Session in Newham

Thursdays, in The Golden Fleece, Capel Road, London E12.  From 9pm.

We play a mainly Irish repertoire but would welcome music from other traditions.

Contact: Paul Draper: 0208 548 1941


Session in Walthamstow

Second Tuesday of the month, in the Rose & Crown, 55 Hoe Street, Walthamstow, London E17 4SA

The regular Walthamstow session has moved to the Red Room at the Rose & Crown.  All being well we will continue as a monthly session on second Tuesdays.

We start slow and steady at 8 and about 9ish we have a break and a raffle, then play a bit faster to the end of the evening.  All acoustic instruments welcome.

Contact: Alison Scott: alison@kittywompus.com   Net: www.walthamstowfolk.co.uk/Sessions.htm


Irish Session in Hammersmith

2nd Friday of month - BUT the Christmas seisiún will be Fri 5th December 2008 at the Irish Cultural Centre, Blacks Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9DT

The West London branch of Comhaltas hold their seisiún/session of traditional Irish music, song and dance 8.30-11pm on the 2nd Friday of each month at the Irish Cultural Centre, Blacks Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9DT.  It is free of charge and the public is welcome to attend and to join in. More info on this session and other events at www.irishculturalcentre.co.uk


Session in The Borough

First Sunday lunchtime every month at The Horseshoe Inn, 26 Melior Street, London SE1 3QP

The Horseshoe is a friendly back street pub near London Bridge station, round the back of Guys Hospital.  We will be meeting in an area off the main bar used for meals during the week, but the pub will still be happy to serve food.

Contact: Full details are on the web at: http://www.boroughmusicsession.co.uk


Session in Clerkenwell

30 October. The Crown Tavern, 43 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0EG.  Noon until 3.30ish

Coffee and toast in the Curved Angel café if you arrive early.  Good food available in The Crown throughout the afternoon.

These sessions occur only for a few months early and late in the year.  Contact Alex (below) for other dates and further details.

Contact: Alex Szyszkowski: alex@szysz.co.uk


Session in Forest Hill

Thursday nights, 9.00pm onwards at The Blythe Hill Tavern, on corner of Blythe Hill Lane and Stanstead Road, Forest Hill, London SE23.

Irish Traditional Music Session: intermediate to advanced.  A varied selection of Reels, Jigs, Polkas, Slides, Hornpipes, Mazurkas, Waltzes played, and the very occasional song sung, at this session, now in its fourth consecutive year in its present form, that is every Thursday night till late, (though allegedly sessions have taken place off and on for some 16 years now) in the snug of this beautiful old London Pub.  Valid contributing musicians welcome.  No shaky eggs, didgeridoos or rainsticks please.  Usually free drinks for players.  Trains: Catford/Catford Bridge or Honor Oak Park.  Buses: 185/171 or buses to Catford (1km distant).  DLR: Lewisham (3km distant)

Contact: Danny - D.Mackay@iop.kcl.ac.uk   Website: http://hometown.aol.co.uk/cruiseroisin/myhomepage/makingmusic.html


Session in Greenwich

Tuesday nights, 9:00, The Star and Garter, 60, Old Woolwich Rd, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NY

Mostly English music; some songs.  A big session - get there early.  Good beer and food.   Occasional guests - full details at: www.greentrad.org.uk

Contact: Greg Robbins: secretary@greentrad.org.uk


Session in Islington

Irish music session, 1st and 3rd Sundays, at the Old Red Lion Theatre Pub in Islington, London - from 8pm.

Contact: Joe Devine, Events Manager: joe@oldredliontheatre.co.uk


Afernoon Irish sessions in London

Every Saturday 4-6pm, Howl at the Moon, 178 Hoxton St, London N1 5LH.  Eimear McGeown, Nigel Stevens

Every Sunday 2-4pm, The White Hart Hotel, 184 New Cross Rd, New Cross.  London SE14 5AA, Eimear McGeown, Nigel Stevens & Rita Farrell

Every Sunday 5-7pm, Howl at the Moon, 178 Hoxton St, London N1 5LH.  Eimear McGeown, Nigel Stevens

Contact: Nigel Stevens 07968 585590


Lincolnshire

Session in:

Haconby, The Hare and Hounds, 2 Wset Road, Haconby, Bourne, Lincs, PE10 0UZ

3rd Mondays.  An established English session, 8.00pm 'til 11pm.  Popular friendly session: tunes, no songs usually.  Mostly English but known to give a chance to anything folky.  Dots available for you unfortunate readers.

Contact: Pete Shaw pete@peteshaw.co.uk 01778 571563 Pub: 01778 570132 or www.peterboroughfolkdiary.org.uk/hhare.aspx


 

Midlands

Session near Wolverhampton

First and third Monday of the month, 9-11:30pm at The Barley Mow, Pennwood Lane, Penn Common, near Wolverhampton WV45JN phone 01902 333150.

Acoustic session, folk based but anything goes

Contact: Jez Quinn, phone 07963336549


Traditional song session in Birmingham

First Thursday of the month, 8:00 onwards, in the Prince of Wales pub, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8EE

A chance to sing and listen to traditional songs in a friendly and informal environment.

Contact: Pam Bishop, Tel: 0121 247 3856, Web: www.tradartsteam.co.uk/song-sessions.html


Traditional music session in Birmingham

Third Sunday of the month, 8:00 onwards, in the Prince of Wales pub, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8EE

Enjoy playing or listening to English, Scottish and Irish folk music - all are welcome!

Contact: Pam Bishop, Tel: 0121 247 3856, Web: www.tradartsteam.co.uk/music-sessions.html


Irish session in Stourbridge

Katy Fitzgeralds, Enville St , Stourbridge every Wednesday night

Contact: www.irishpiper.org.uk


Beware!  Irish Session on Monday nights at the City Bar , King St , Wolverhampton.  Does not always occur.



Norfolk

Sessions in:

King's Lynn, The Acoustic Kitchen, Tudor Rose Hotel, St Nicholas Street.  3rd Sunday of every month, 8:00pm to 11:00pm.

Contact: Pete Kitchen: aycf07@dsl.pipex.com


Hunworth, Bell Inn: near Holt. First and Third Mondays. Songs & Tunes

Contact: Chris Holderness 01263 861799


Norwich, Black Horse: Earlham Road. Second & Fourth Mondays, 9pm. Red Herrings Band.

Contact: Chris Morley 01603 615305


Fakenham, Wensum Lodge Hotel: Bridge Street. Storytelling, Poetry & Music. Second Tuesday 8pm.

Contact: Jenny Cunningham 01362 668224


Narborough, Ship Inn: Third Tuesdays

Contact: 01760 337307


Castle Acre, The Ostrich Inn: Last Wednesdays

Contact: 01760 755398


Hingham, White Hart, Market Place: Second Weds. 8:30

Contact: Martin Moore 01362 820617


Kings Lynn, Crossways: Valingers Road. Alt Sundays. Irish Sessions.

Contact: 01553 771947


Norwich, The Plough: St Benedict's St. Wednesdays. Song & Music

Contact: 01603 626333


Scottow, Three Horseshoes: Second Wednesdays 8pm.

Contact: Brian 01692 538243


Sheringham, Burlington Hotel: Esplanade. Second Wednesdays not Jan & Feb 8pm.

Contact: Eddie Bailey 01263 821129


Wolferton, Social Club: Singaround. Alternate Thursdays 8.30Pm

Contact: Roger Young 01485 600948, www.norfolkfolk.co.uk


Fincham, The Swan: Monthly, Fridays.

Contact: 01366 347765 for exact dates.


Hindolveston, Village Hall Bar: Last Fridays. 8.30pm

Contact: Chris Holderness 01263 861799


Norwich, Music House: Wensum Lodge, King St. Fridays

Contact: Simon Black 01603 483382, www.blackcatmusic.org.uk


Blakeney, British Legion Hall: High Street. Last or 4th Sundays (ring to check) 7.30pm

Contact: 01263 740783


Gayton, Crown: First Sundays. Songs & Tunes.

Contact: 01553 636252


Norwich, Gatehouse: Dereham Road.  Weds (pure Irish), Thursday (music and songs) and Sunday (Celtic and European).

Contact: Molly Barrett 01603 301840


Norwich, The York Tavern, Norwich, Fridays, from 8:30pm.

Acoustic music and singing round the room.  All performers and audience welcome.

Contact: 07963 676556


Wymondham, The Feathers: Last Sundays

Contact: 01953 605675


Northumberland

Session in Morpeth

Sunday afternoons, starting at noon, at the Tap and Spile, Manchester Street, Morpeth

Northumberland trad session featuring Northumbrian, Irish, Scottish and American Old-time music and a range of traditional instruments including the Northumberland smallpipes.  Friendly and welcoming.

Contact: Maureen Davison - smallpiper@googlemail.com  for further details.


Nottinghamshire

Session in Sneinton

Second Tuesday of the month at the King William IV pub, Eyre St, Sneinton, Nottingham

Traditional singing and playing with the occassional bit of clogging thrown in!  All welcome!

Contact: Andy Sowter: andysowter@yahoo.co.uk   Link: www.geocities.com/andysowter/



Shropshire

Irish session in Jackfield

The Boat Inn, Jackfield - every Thursday evening 8 till late.

Wall to wall Irish music session - to get a seat you have to bring an instrument.  Lots of encouragement for beginners.

Contact: Phone (UK) 01952 882178 (The Boat Inn) or Fliss Burke - felicityburke@hotmail.com

Irish session in Selattyn

Cross Keys pub in Selattyn, near Oswestry, Shropshire.

Thursday night trad Irish, English and other.  Mainly instrumental - start time is about 9pm.

Contact: simon@boyes2.plus.com


Song Session in Jackfield

First Sunday monthly at the The Black Swan, Jackfield, near Ironbridge, Shropshire

Bill Caddick runs a song session (Swansongs!)

Contact: Bill on 01952-883009. E-mail: music@billcaddick.co.uk


Somerset

Session in Frome

The Griffin Inn, Milk Street.  Last Tuesday of each month.  8:30 onwards.

Mainly Irish stuff, but sometimes a bit of everything!  Everyone will get a warm welcome!

Contact: Trevor Mills - e-mail: Trevor_Mills@BATHNES.GOV.UK   Tel: 0774 316 5432


Session in Huish Episcopi

3rd Sat - Eli's, The Rose & Crown (01458 250494) Huish Episcopi (near Langport) TA10 9QT, on the A372.

Traditional singaround.

Contact: Rod Harrington, 01823 481253, harrington.rod@gmail.com

 

 


Staffordshire

Third Thursday every month.  The Crown, Hyde Lea, Stafford, ST18 9GB

Mainly trad tunes and song.

Contact: Steve Gullick 07847 382266


Third Wednesday every month.  The Lamb & Flag, Little Haywood, Staffs ST18 0TU

Mainly Trad Folk and Blues song and tunes

Contact: Frank Ryan 01889 881184


Suffolk

Sessions:

1st Wednesday: Little Glemham, The Lion, 8:00pm songs & tunes

1st Thursday: Middleton The Bell, 'Squit Night', 8:00pm, songs & tunes

1st Friday: Stratford St Andrew, Riverside Centre, 8:00pm, mainly tunes

2nd Thursday: Southwold Harbour Inn, 8:00pm, songs & tunes

3rd Wednesday: Aldringham Parrot & Punchbowl, 8:30, songs & tunes

3rd Fridays: Kettleburgh Chequers, 8:30pm, mainly tunes

4th Wednesday: Blaxhall Ship, 'Shipshape session', 8:00pm, mainly tunes

4th Thursday: Walton (Felixstowe) The Half Moon, 8.00pm, mainly songs

Final Thursday: Snape Crown, 8:30 onwards

Contact: Rob Neal - Nealrbrt@aol.com or tel: 01473 610951 for all of the above sessions.


Occasional traditional music, song and dance sessions in pubs and village halls.

They're too irregular (though not infrequent!) and usually short-notice to post details at the present.  Contact Katie for details.

Contact: Katie Howson: info@eatmt.fsnet.co.uk  or  01449 771090


Sessions in:

Castle Camps, The Cock: Last Monday except Bank Holidays. Traditional Songs and Tunes.

Contact: 01799 584207


Hundon, Rose & Crown: Second Monday. Informal, mostly music.

Contact: 01440 786261


Thornham Magna, Four Horseshoes: First Monday. Informal.

Contact: 01379 678777


Bramford, Angel: First Tuesday at 8:00. Bernie's Buskers, Song & music around the room.

Contact: Maggie Moore on 01449 722615


Stradbroke, Queens Head: Every week at 1pm. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01379 384384


Stratford St Mary, The Swan: First & Third Tuesday.

Contact: 01206 322164


Whepstead, White Horse: Second Tuesday. Traditional music & song.

Contact: 01284 735542


Yaxley, Cherry Tree: Third Tuesdays. All types of acoustic music.

Contact: 01379 783288/788050


East Bergholt, Carriers Arms: Second Wednesday.

Contact: Chris Lerwell 01206 240153


Edwardstone, White Horse: Second Wednesday.

Contact: 01787 211211


Flempton, Greyhound: Third Wednesday 8.30pm. Sing, Say & Play.

Contact: 01284 728400


Offton, Limeburners: First Wednesday. Folk without smoke. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01473 658318


Wissett, Plough: Second Friday acoustic sessions.

Contact: 01986 872201


Bardwell, Dun Cow: Second Thursday. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01359 250806


Coney Weston, Swan: Fourth Thursday. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01359 221295


Eastbridge, Eels Foot: Every Thursday Squit Session.

Contact: 01728 830154


Ipswich, Golden Key: Alternate Thursdays (not the Steamboat weeks). Song and music around the room.

Contact: 01473 723916


Ipswich, Steamboat Tavern: New Cut West. Alternate Thursdays. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01473 601902


Market Weston, Mill Inn: (between Hopton & Barningham). First Thursday. Topical & Traditional songs.

Contact: 01359 21018


North Lopham, Kings Head: Third Thursday. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01379 687320


Redgrave, Cross Keys: Fifth Thursdays.

Contact: 01379 898510


Charsfield, Three Horseshoes: First Saturdays. No Smoking.

Contact: 01473 737330


Eastbridge, Eels Foot: Last Sunday Strictly Folk session.

Contact: 01728 830154


Framlingham, The Crown Hotel: Last Sunday.

Contact: 01728 723521


Offton, Limeburners: Every Sunday. Session in the bar, plus Folk without Smoke in the Restaurant.

Contact: 01473 658318


Southwold, Harbour Inn: First and third Sunday Shindig sessions.

Contact: 01502 722381


Stonham Parva, Magpie: Second & last Sun. Informal music & song.

Contact: 01449 711287


Sudbury, The Quay Theatre bar: Last Sundays except Aug & Dec. 8pm.

Contact: 01787 370666


Tattingstone, White Horse: First & Third Sundays.

Contact: 01473 328060


Surrey

Session in Haslemere:

Second Sunday of the month at the Royal Oak, Critchmere Hill, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 1LS

A tune session, predominately English, but anyone is welcome to play tunes from Ireland, Scotland, France etc. if they wish.

Contact: Phil Gaillard: philip.gaillard@tesco.net   OR website: http://philgaillard.co.uk/page2.html   OR facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/732488633505025/


Session in Redhill

Thursdays, from 8:30 at the The Home Cottage, Cavendish Road, Redhill - near the station.

Real ale.  Mainly English music.

Session irregular, contact Polly Dare: 07906 760110


Session in Dorking

Second Thursday of the month, at various venues in Dorking.  Anyone interested should contact Ann (below) for details of the venue for that month.

Mainly English traditional tunes and songs, from 8:30.

Contact: Ann Wade: ann.wade1@btinternet.com

 

 


Sussex

Sessions in East Sussex

First Tuesday of the month from 8:00

English Tunes Session at The John Harvey Tavern, Bear Yard, (opposite Harvey's Brewery), Lewes

Contact: Valmai Goodyear: valmaigoodyear@aol.com


4th Tuesdays of the month at 8:00 at the Elephant & Castle, White Hill, Lewes BN7 2DJ

The Lewes Favourites tunes practice session, a free session for players of any instrument and any ability wanting to learn tunes current in local English tunes sessions.

Details on www.lewesarmsfolkclub.org/LAFC/Lewesfav.html   Contact bryancreer@aol.com   or valmaigoodyear@aol.com


First Sunday of the month, 2:30 - 5:30

English tunes session at the Black Horse, 55 Western Road, Lewes BN7 1RS

Contact: Bryan Creer: bryancreer@aol.com


First Monday of the month, 8:00

Concertinas Anonymous at the Elephant & Castle, White Hill, Lewes BN7 2DJ

A free session for concertina players of all systems and abilities.

Contact: Bryan Creer: Bryancreer@aol.com   Web: www.lewesarmsfolkclub.org/LAFC/concanon.html


Last Sunday of the month, 8:00

Tunes & song session at The White Horse, Ditchling

Contact: Ian Chisholm: iandchisholm@hotmail.com


Sessions in West Sussex

Second Sunday in the month in The Sportsman, Amberly, West Sussex, 6:00pm 'til about 9:00pm.

A mixture of instrumentals and songs of all types.

Contact: Alan Wheeler on AWhee51466@aol.com   or 01798 875412


Third Sunday in the month at The Maypole, Yapton, West Sussex, 4:30pm 'til about 8:30pm.

A mixture of instrumentals and songs of all types.

Contact: Alan Wheeler on AWhee51466@aol.com   or 01798 875412


Last Monday of the month at The Swan, Worthing, 8:00

Tunes & song session.

Contact: not known - at present


Wiltshire

Monday Sessions in Wiltshire

1st and 3rd Mondays of the month, Red Lion, Cricklade, High St. SN6 6DD.

2nd & 4th, and if there is one, a 5th Monday of the month. The Beehive, 55, Prospect Hill, Swindon SN1 3JS.

These are generally music sessions, English/Irish/French with USA/Scottish/Canadian etc. well represented.  A few ballads and the occasional song; Oasis have been covered plus jazz/blues.  But the basis is a fairly standard pub session - melodeons, fiddles, pipes & guitars.

Contact: Dave Foster: djfoster@ntlworld.com  Web: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/djfoster/Venues.htm

Session in Bradford on Avon

Alternate Mondays, at The George, 67 Woolley Street, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. BA15 1AQ

English session.

Contact: Chris Timson on 01225 863762 or chris@concertina.info

 
 

Yorkshire

Session in South Yorkshire

First Monday, of the month, at the Traveller's Rest at High Moor, near Killamarsh, South Yorkshire, S21 2BW.

8:00pm start.  Mainly tunes of English, Scottish or Irish origin, but anything goes.  A few songs if a singer turns up!

Contact: David Wigg 07913955910 or dnwigg@gmail.com


Session in York

Friday evenings at the Three Legged Mare, 15 High Petergate, York., , YORK

An acoustic session, traditional music and singing, no formal structure, pretty much a free for all.  All players/singers welcome.  Usually a very lively night, so it's best to arrive as soon after 8pm as poss, to get a seat!

Contact: Steve & Ruth, email : Snibbet@aol.com


Session in Sheffield

Fourth Thursday of the month, 8pm at The Rivelin Hotel, Tofts Lane, Sheffield 6

English Tunes Session.  Regulars include Diane Richardson, Steve Dumpleton and Linda Hazlewood.  All welcome.

Contact: Diane Richardson - Smoiler@btinternet.com  Tel. 0114 2631315  Mob. 07765 283743


Session near Sheffield

Second Sunday of the month, 8pm at The Royal Hotel, Dungworth, Bradfield, nr Sheffield

English Tunes Session.  Regulars include Diane Richardson, Steve Dumpleton and Linda Hazlewood.  All welcome.

Contact: Diane Richardson - Smoiler@btinternet.com  Tel. 0114 2631315  Mob. 07765 283743


Sessions in York

Tuesdays at The Maltings, Tanners Moat, near Lendal Bridge in the centre of York.

Instrumental, tunes from all over, English, Irish, American, Scottish, French, Scandanavian, all players of any instruments welcome.

Sundays at The Golden Ball, Bishophill, off Nunnery Lane.

Tunes and songs with an American Old Time bias, but not by any means exclusively.  All singers and players welcome.

Contact for either: Mike Tavener - mike@mtavener.freeserve.co.uk


Session in Harrogate

Tap and Spile, Tower Street

Tuesdays at 8.30 pm

All instrumental, tunes from anywhere.  Regularly have English, Irish Scottish, French, Scandanavian + anything else anyone chooses to bring.

Contact: Ray Black - blackmale@talk21.com


Session near Sheffield

The Plough, Low Bradfield

Last Tuesday of every month, 8:00pm

Lots of local traditional singers performing.  You also get a free supper whether you perform or not!

Contact: Mark Davies: Edeophone@aol.com   Tel 0114 2851479  Mobile 007850 475067


Session in Holmfirth

The Fleece, Holme

Bi-monthly, Tuesdays

An evening of singing at featuring local traditional singers and performers,again everyone is very welcome.

The next one will take place on Tuesday 4th March, starting at 8:00pm, when the well known traditional singer and shepherd,Clive Mitchell, will be presented with his award for being voted The Yorkshire Post's 'Farming Personality of the Year'.  This promises to be a great evening.

Contact: Mark Davies: Edeophone@aol.com   Tel 0114 2851479  Mobile 007850 475067


For various sessions in South Yorkshire / North Derbyshire

Check out the Sessions page of the South Riding Folk Network site.


Ireland

Session in Derry City:

1st Thursday of the month, Tinneys Bar, Patrick Street, Derry city.

Tradition singing session.

Contact: Jim Mac Farland: 07599703025 or jimmacfarland@hotmail.com


Session in Co Leitrim:

The Leitrim Singers Circle.  1st Sunday of each month in Davitt's pub, Main Street, Drumkeeran, Co Leitrim.

A singing session run by Jim Bainbridge and Jackie Boyce.  It starts at 5pm - in the hopes of attracting younger singers.

Contacts are: Jackie Boyce on (00353) 860 858838 or Jim Bainbridge on (00353) 894 250032.


Scotland

Session in Ullapool

Thursdays at The Ferry Boat Inn, Shore Street, Ullapool, from about 9pm.

A real mix of English, Scottish, Irish and a few French tunes and songs, led by Max, Sue and Brian.

Contact: Max Pittman: mp1ttman@yahoo.co.uk


Session in Achiltibuie

Variable evenings at Coigach Community Hall, 7:30pm - 10:30pm, during the months of July and August.

Traditional music sessions.

Contact: www.coigach.com for dates and details.


Wales

Session in Fishguard, Pembrokeshire

Tuesday nights from 8pm at The Royal Oak, Fishguard, Pembrokeshire

Session for all comers and all types of music and song.  Everything from Irish fiddle to the occasional Welsh harp; by way of guitar, mandolin, penny whistle, flute, Welsh pipes (bagpipes) accordian, concertina, bouzouki, zither, and anything that can be tapped, hit or shaken.  Good music in good company.

Contact: Janet Bott on janet@landstrider.freeserve.co.uk
or www.pembrokeshire-folk-music.co.uk


Australia

Sessions in Brisbane

Saturday afternoons - Story Bridge Hotel, Kangaroo Pt (just a ferry ride across the river from the CBD).  Songs from 1-3 pm, then tunes thereafter until as late as 7 pm.  All welcome.  Aussie sessions are very relaxed and less competitive then elsewhere so we're told.

Contact: Glen Donald on Brisbane 07-3846 1913, or Terry Jacob, 07-3393 3474.

Sunday evenings - Cafe Bohemia, Hardgreaves Rd, West End (also quite central).  Tunes from 6 pm 'til as late as midnight.  Very relaxed.  First 2 hours mainly for less experienced musos.  We encourage anything.  Some people even throw in some Macedonian tunes.

Tuesday evenings - Gilhooley's Hotel, in the city.  A recent innovation, and these sometimes don't last more than a few months.

Contact: Ring Randall Matthews first to check on 07-38482664.


Session outside Brisbane

First Saturday of the month at 7pm.

Up Front Club, Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland (1+ hour NW of Brisbane)

Contact: Richenda Bridge - silvereel@squirrel.com.au  or phone: 07 - 5499 9190


Session in NSW

Bellingen NSW - A small town on the mid north coast of NSW, 10k inland and reknown for a strong alternate presence.  We have had a session here for over ten years.  For the past few years it has been an outdoors session, every Saturday morning (from about midday onward) at a table near several coffee shops in Church Street.  We have flutes, concertina, whisltes, guitars, mandolin, button accordion etc.  Visitors very welcome.

Contact: John May or Margo Burl: ronalddog@yahoo.com.au


Canada

Session in Toronto

At Dora Keogh's, 141 Danforth, Toronto every Sunday afternoon and Thursday night.

The music is largely Irish traditional with a smattering of Ottawa Valley and Maritimes influences.  It is fast gaining a reputation this side of the pond for it's hospitality and excellence.  The session is hosted by Dathai Connaughton.  All visiting musicians are welcome.


Sessions in St. John's, Newfoundland

7:30 PM every Friday evening at Erin's Pub, Water Street

7:30 P.M. every Saturday evening at O'Reilly's Irish Pub, George Street

7:30 P.M. every Saturday evening at Bridie Molloy's Pub, George Street

6:00(approx.) every Saturday evening at The Ship Inn, Solomon's Lane

Contact: Fergus O'Byrne: fobyrne@roadrunner.nf.net


New Zealand

Session in Wellington

The Welsh Dragon Pub, 10/12 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington.

Tuesday nights, at 7:30pm.  We start with a slow session as we work through beginner and recently learnt tunes, after 8:30 things speed up.

You can find out more about us and upcoming sessions on our website: http://wellingtonsession.org, or on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WellingtonSession/

Contact: Ted Cizadlo - e-mail: tcizadlo@gmail.com, or Andy Linton - email: asjl@lpnz.org


Session in Auckland

Dogs Bollix Bar, corner of Newton Rd and Karangahape Rd in central Auckland.

Tuesday nights. Kicks off around 8:30, can go to 1:30 some weeks.

Excellent open acoustic session, musicians, singers, bards.

Contact: www.dogsbollixirishbar.co.nz/index.html


Session in Auckland

The Bog, Parnell Rise, Parnell in Central Auckland.

Sunday nights.  Small bunch of musos paid to be there, others welcome to join in.  All acoustic, on the floor not on stage and if you're any good you'll earn a pint.  Lovely music and some very good singing.


Session in Christchurch

Sullivan's Bar, Manchester St.

Wednesday nights.  Open acoustic session, mostly musicians but singers welcomed if they're any good.


USA

Session in Mansfield, Missouri

Thursday nights at 700 at the Mansfield Auto Auction building - 45 miles east of Springfield, Missouri on Highway 60.

Mansfield Jamboree: a free, open, acoustic jam session that has groups for bluegrass, old time, country, gospel, some square dancing and jig dancing.

Contact: Joyce Cantrell: music@mansfieldjamboree.org   www.mansfieldjamboree.org


Session in Hartford, Connecticut

Traditional Irish music session every Wednesday night from 7.30pm to 10pm. 942 Main St, Hartford

All musicians, singers and dancers welcome.

Contact: PV O'Donnell, web: www.pvodonnell.com, phone: 860 525 1600


Various sessions in Chattanooga, Tenn

Mountain Opery every Friday night, the Ringgold Georgia Depot on Saturday, and Dulcimers and Accompaniment at Trinity Lutheran every Thursday night.  Chattanooga Area Friends of Folk Music meets the first Sunday of the month in the afternoon and Dulcimers and Accompaniment meets the second Saturday of the month in the afternoon.  All are welcome.
This area is rich in traditional music because of the Cumberland Plateau ends here and the Pedmont region begins.

Contact: Joe Ridolfo, e-mail: rahini@comcast.net


Free American Country Old Time Music session in Manhattan, NY

Temporarliy cancelled - contact Jack (below) for details of possible new venue and day/times.

Contact: Jack Hirschorn - e-mail: MARBLE@WARWICK.NET
or:  http://140.190.128.190/OLDTIME/8.30.9801.57PM.html


New York City Concertina Squeeze-In

Thanks to the good offices of Allan Atlas and the CUNY Grad Center's Center for Free Reed studies, we've found a location in New York City to hold the first New York City Concertina Squeeze-In.

Saturdays from 11:00 to 1:00 pm.  The meeting will be held at the Graybar Building, 420 Lexington Avenue, between 43rd-44th, 15th floor, Room 1564.  Bring your own drink or food if necessary - the snack bar in the building is closed on the weekends.

Please spread the word to any concertina player - English, Anglo, or Duet systems welcome.  If this is successful, we'd like to start a monthly gathering for exchanging tunes, information, and more.

Contact: Richard Carlin: dockboggs@aol.com


Sweden

English Music Session in Stockholm

First Sunday of the month at the Bishop's Arms pub, Bellmansgatan 12, Stockholm.

Anyone who plays English tunes and happens to be in Stockholm on the first Sunday of a month is welcome to participate.  We - some members of the Eken Morris Dancers - have 2 melodeons, 3 fiddles, anglo concertina and a Cornish guitar player and singer.

The Eken Morris Dancers, who will celebrate their 25th anniversary this year, also dance outside the pub Thursday evenings during the summer.

Contact: Jan Ivarson - Jan.Ivarson@Telia.com
or http://biphome.spray.se/ekenmorris/


Correspondence:

Rod Stradling - e-mail: rod@mustrad.org.uk    Tel: 01453 759475
snail-mail: 1 Castle Street, Stroud, Glos GL5 2HP, UK

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