Irish Music Sessions at Ceol: A Cultural Experience in the Heart of the City
As the sun sets on a Tuesday evening, Ceol Irish Pub comes alive with the vibrant sounds of Irish music. The dimly lit pub, adorned with Irish flags and symbols, welcomes around 30 patrons who immerse themselves in the lively tunes and engaging atmosphere.
Kat MacMartin, a key figure in these musical gatherings, co-hosts the sessions and plays a five-string violin with a strikingly glittery bow. For Kat, these nights are about forging connections through music. “Everybody comes in with their week of dramas and joys and sorrows,” she shared. “It creates this beautiful community space that’s an ongoing, organic, alive thing.”
Irish sessions hold a special place in cultural traditions, and Ceol honors this with its selection of classic Irish drinks and an impressive array of whiskeys. MacMartin has been instrumental in curating these events since 2016, ensuring inclusivity among musicians.
“The way we run the session is by going around the circle, having each person pick a set,” MacMartin explained, highlighting the collaborative spirit. “We’re kind of making sure that everybody feels involved, engaged, and if they want to pick something, great, if they don’t, they pass along, and it moves around the circle.”
Regular attendees like Sean Morton, MacMartin’s partner, appreciate the opportunity to connect with others who share their unique musical interest. “It’s certainly very niche,” Morton remarked. “Outside of going to sessions in other places, it’s hard to meet people who are into the same thing. But I imagine it’s similar to people who go to board game meetups or conventions.”
Among the audience is Kat’s mother, Julie MacMartin, who frequently attends the sessions. “I love to go hear live music, and I do it three or four nights a week,” she said. “I’ve been coming here for nine years because my daughter plays fiddle and needs a session. It’s always a lift — lots of smiles, lots of happy people.”
As the evening progresses, the music weaves a tapestry of community spirit, a sentiment Kat wishes to extend to the wider public. “Support your community. Support local musicians. Find a place you love to go — weekly, monthly, or whenever — and build friendships, build relationships, build your life.”
The Irish sessions at Ceol Irish Pub welcome all who wish to experience this cultural tradition. They are held every Tuesday night, beginning at 7:10 p.m.
Lela Lennon is a student at Reno High School and a participant in KUNR’s Youth Media program, a special partnership with the Washoe County School District to train the next generation of journalists.
