Our virtual sessions run a little different than regular in-person sessions, so here are some general guidelines to give you some insight as to how they should be hosted. If you have any questions, contact Ken Fleming.
- These sessions are “play along” meaning that attendees will be muted and will play along with the scheduled session leaders.
- With the exception of the “guest-led” sessions on the last Monday of each month, there will be four session leaders assigned each Monday. A “leader” may consist of one or more players that are able to safely play together. For example, Peggy and Ken Fleming, who will normally host the sessions, are technically one leader.
- Session leaders will take turns playing tunes for the attendees to play along.
- If an attendee suggests a tune or set of tunes and you can play them, state you will play them when your time comes around or respond to them in the chat.
- Tunes should be Irish melodies that are commonly played in sessions. The occasional new or not widely-played tune is okay. We all love to learn new tunes.
- You are asked to select one set of tunes in advance of the your assigned session that can be announced to attendees so they can learn or practice them before the session.
- Because the purpose of this session is to enable players of all abilities to join, it’s not an open session that permits attendees to unmute and play their tunes. If someone wants to be considered for leading a session, have them contact Ken after the session.
- Between tunes, conversation is welcome and attendees can unmute to speak.
- Be sure and view the chat window for requests, questions or comments from the attendees.
- In advance of the session, please review our suggested SETTINGS for Zoom that will help you obtain the best quality sound.
- We highly recommend that you are connected to the Internet via Ethernet. Wifi is fine in most cases, but it can be unstable at times.
- We also encourage your using an external mic and audio interface, if you have them, since audio is the most important element in these sessions.
- Also, check the lighting you will use for your video. Lightning in front of you is better than behind you. Avoid sitting with your back to a window, as the camera will adjust for the back light and make you into a silhouette. Instead, face the window, which will give you soft, more pleasing light.
- There will be an assigned host, normally Ken, who will admit you and the other attendees into the Zoom session. Please log on to the session 5-10 minutes before it begins to make sure everything is working fine on your end.
- Unless any of the session leaders object, the sessions will be recorded to allow attendees to learn the tunes played after the session ends. The session recordings will be posted in a TIMES Google Drive that is accessible only by those who obtain the link.