Folk music is played in different settings – sessions, where players play through and pick up tunes together, as well as at festivals and camps. This group music-making is more communal than in classical music; players of all abilities are welcome, each bringing their own voice to the music regardless of their experience. It is also wonderful to sit and play folk fiddle alone or with just one or two other musicians – maybe around a campfire or in the garden. Folk tunes are always in your head, and are there ready to be played.
The music is popular worldwide, with many opportunities to play music and make friends.
Across the UK, FOAOTMAD (Friends of American Oldtime Music and Dance) organise regular sessions, festivals and camp-outs. Beginners are as welcome as more advanced players, and many events have slow jams for newcomers – the music can be played simultaneously by people of all levels of experience, with beginners using basic versions of tunes, and other players adding energy and complexity. Larger events usually have sessions of different speeds.
Sore Fingers Summer Schools run residential schools, for beginners up to advanced players, with renowned tutors from the Old Time and Bluegrass traditions – these are expensive but a fantastic musical investment and chance for social connection. There are also Old Time workshops at Halsway Manor in Somerset, and Fire in the Mountain’s Music Camp in Wales.
Locally, Clare co-leads a regular Old Time session at the Yew Tree Inn, Peterstow, Ross-on-Wye (1st Sunday of each month, 3–6pm). Everyone is welcome, although this is a faster session.