About the Academy
Music made in company
Folk music has never lived on stages. It lives in kitchens and back rooms, around pub tables, in the gaps between one tune and the next. You learn it from people, and you play it with people.
Academy of Folk exists to bring that community together in real life. Find a session wherever you are, find a teacher to learn from, and add what you know so the next traveller finds it too.
Every listing comes from the community. Sessions come and go, so check with the venue before a long journey — and when you've been, tap “it's still on” to keep the map honest.
For your first time
Session etiquette
I.Listen first
Sit near the edge and listen for a set or two before you take out your instrument. You'll learn the feel of the room.
II.Ask before joining
Catch the eye of whoever seems to be leading and ask if it's alright to play along. Most sessions are delighted to have you.
III.Play what you know
If you don't know the tune, listen or play very quietly. Learning tunes by ear at sessions is part of the tradition — just don't drown it out.
IV.Mind the volume
Rhythm instruments especially — one bodhrán or guitar is usually plenty. Follow the melody players, never lead them.
V.Starting a set
Wait to be invited to start a tune. When you are, pick something the room is likely to know.
VI.Songs get silence
When someone sings, everyone stops. Talking over a singer is the one unforgivable thing.
VII.Buy a round
The musicians often keep the pub busy for free. If you're enjoying it, a drink for the players goes a long way.
VIII.Recording
Ask before recording or filming. Some sessions are happy to be shared; some very much aren't.