Staten Island Seisiún
In 2021, the Staten Island Seisiún celebrated its 10th year. The virtual season was led by Bob Wright and Linda Hickman, and brought a rotating cast of musicians together in an inviting, supportive atmosphere on the 3rd Thursday of each month. The series allows for musicians at different experience levels to hone their skills and expand their repertoire.
Please note while Staten Island Arts previously assisted this series through our Folklife program, all Seisiún matters are now handled directly by Bob and Linda. You can learn about future events, get in touch, and check out archived performances on the official Staten Island Seisiún Facebook page.
The 2021 Staten Island Seisiún program dates were:
- February 18th, 7:30 – 9pm, eFlyer
- March 18th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- April 15th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- May 20th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- June 17th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- July 15th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- August 19th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- September 16th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
- October 21st, 7:30 – 9pm, eFlyer
- Wednesday* November 17th, 7:30 – 9pm, eFlyer
- Wednesday* 15th, 7:30 – 9pm, Facebook, eFlyer
A Note from Our Folklife Director on the 2020-2021 Season:
“The Seisiún (translated from the Irish word for session) is an Irish custom in which musicians come together in an informal environment to practice traditional Irish songs, tunes, jigs, and reels. Often, there are a few recognized leaders of the session, more experienced players, who guide the event. One player will begin to play a tune, and those who know it will play along. Generally speaking, it is proper etiquette to only play a tune one is familiar with. Seisiúns can take place in pubs, taverns, or even private homes. For many years now, a Staten Island husband and wife musical duo, immigrated from Ireland, have been hosting these gatherings in their home on Thursday evenings (complete with a tea and cookie break in the middle). We modeled our online program after this tradition, being sure to include some of our own Staten Island style in the virtual platform.”
About Our Funders
The Staten Island Seisiún is supported through the Investors Foundation and with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.