In the last article we talked about hosting a multi-level session. Let’s take a look at how to participate in a session, however it’s being hosted. If it is a multi-level session of the type I described in the last article, it’s no problem for you to participate. All you’ll really want to have ready is some tune that you like and know how to start, so that when it’s time for you to jump in, you know what to do. You might want to have two tunes in mind, in case one of them was recently played already. You’ll be able to start it at the tempo you like.
The most important trick to starting a tune at a session is to make its rhythm clear. Even if people know the tune, they can’t join in with you until they figure out what kind of tune it is — jig, reel, strathspey, air, waltz. For others to know, you have to know, and convey, the rhythm. Regardless of your level as a player, you can certainly choose a reliable session tune for yourself, and know the type of tune, the title, and the key. True, many session players don’t know these things, but if you just have a tune or two ready to pitch in to the group, it’s not so hard to look up and remember a few things about it. It can help accompanists if you call out the key, and helps melody players to know the name of the tune if they ask afterwards.
To play with good rhythm depends on knowing the beat notes. All you really must do to feel comfortable starting a tune at a session is