About Comhaltas

Aims and Objectives

CCE Organisation

The Session

An Ghaeilge

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Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann distinguishes between sessions and Comhaltas sessions, as follows:

A session

A session involves a group of musicians who come together to play and enjoy good traditional music primarily for their own enjoyment, although in most cases it also proves highly entertaining to non-participants. Examples of sessions include pub sessions and street sessions at fleadhanna cheoil.

Comhaltas sessions

Comhaltas sessions are held by a CCÉ branch on a regular basis, perhaps weekly or monthly, and are organised to include a wide range of activities depending on the interests and talents of the membership. Some points worth considering in running a good Comhaltas session are as follows:

Do all musicians participate?

Make time available for the younger, less experienced players during the course of the session (we all have to start somewhere!).

Remember the singers.

Traditional singing is also a very important part of our cultural heritage.

Are there dancers present?

Musicians should play for at least one set and/or céilí dance.

Are visiting musicians present?

Always make visitors welcome and encourage them to participate fully in the session.

Probably the most important consideration in running a successful session is the appointment of a good Fear a'Tí. Try to identify a volunteer in your branch who might enjoy this role and you'll soon reap the rewards.