Detroit irish
music association
Sessions
The traditional Irish session is an integral part of the musical and social culture of Ireland. A session is an informal gatherings of musicians playing sets of tunes. To learn more about the Irish session, its role in traditional music, session etiquette, and more, please visit our resources page here.
Ann Arbor Weekly Session
Thursdays
September - May
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Slow Session
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm - Open Session
Green Wood Center
1001 Green Rd, Ann Arbor, MI
Detroit Monthly Session
1st Tuesday
October - December (2018 TBD)
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm - Slow Session
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm - Open Session
Gaelic League
2068 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
DIMA Sessions
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New for 2017: Two Locations!
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We meet during the school year for lively, casual, learning-oriented trad sessions. Tea and other refreshments are provided, and all ages, instruments and ability levels are welcome! Both the Ann Arbor and Detroit sessions follow the same general format:
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Slow Session - The first hour is a 'slow session', intended to allow all participants to focus on learning to play tunes steadily, with proper style and ornamentation. This is intended to help brand new players ease into session playing, while helping more experienced players to refine their abilities and repertoire.
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Open Session - The later 'open session' is not necessarily a 'fast session', but follows a round robin format which allows everyone an opportunity to play tunes at the tempo of their choosing. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend both sessions!
The aim of both sessions is to provide a warm, encouraging, judgement-free atmosphere in which to learn and share in the fun of playing traditional Irish music.
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Teachers are generally on hand during this time for private lessons as well, though please contact us in advance to schedule a lesson to ensure teacher availability and space!
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Drop in to get to know us and have some tunes, tea and fun!
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Are 'Listeners' Welcome? - Yes! Especially if you are coming to have a listen and see what we're about with an eye--er, ear--towards joining in. But please keep in mind this is not a performance. It's a casual gathering where folks of all abilities are encouraged to work on improving and should feel free to be able to make mistakes without the pressure of feeling like they're performing in public.