The Barnsley Celtic Sessions continue to go from strength to strength. Founded recently by regular Barnsley Folk Club banjo player Alan Jones, the monthly get together at The Old No 7 continues to attract quality musicians from the Barnsley area and beyond. The session on May 11th saw quite a few people turn up with traditional Celtic instruments and perform to a very appreciative audience, with some players travelling from as far afield as Manchester and Sheffield to be part of this burgeoning event.
This open gathering is impromptu to the point of appearing almost off hand, but the casual atmosphere belies the quality of the musicianship in what is rapidly becoming one of the area’s premier events for musicians and enthusiasts alike. Not only were there some current and past stars of the folk music scene in attendance – including but not limited to Patrick Walker Dave Mallinson, Chris Dyson, Steve Lacey, Bob and Chris Fitt, Eddy Green, Dom Dudill, Geoff Wright, Chris Walker and Richard Walker – I was also pleased to spot aspiring musicians amongst the audience, sampling some very good beer, picking up tips and generally enjoying the atmosphere of a top quality music session.
The Celtic Session is held on the second Sunday of every month at Barnsley’s premier real ale destination, The Old No 7. The next session will be on Sunday June 8th, starting at 2pm.
Words: James McCormack
The attached video is one of many taken from Alan Jones’ youtube page, where you will find videos of many local folk sessions.
Alternative Barnsley 
Dom Dudill!