For the first time, I have an opportunity to attend Willie Week. Would anyone care to offer suggestions to a newcomer about the week?
I plan on bringing my pipes, of course, and hit up Peter Laban for some tunes (Hi, Peter!). I will also see if I could snag a camcorder to record some music and of course, my minidisc recorder so I can record the music. Camera, too . . .
What shall I expect (specifically in terms of people, crowds, sessions, etc.?)
Thank you!
Jonathan Hohl
Massachusetts, USA
I’m sure this is a silly question, but have you registered yet? I know registration started a few months ago so it may be closed to filled up now or even full. Other than that which I’m sure you’ve already taken care of, have a great time! Maybe I’ll see you at the ceilith on the 11th! 
Last year I did pipes and registered on the morning of the first class without any problems. You have to play a tune so they can put you in an apprpriate class (pipes are the only instrument you can preregister for, by the way). Worry more about getting a place to stay, especially if you want to be in Miltown itself and/or you don’t want to camp.
Expect lots of people, more-or-less 24 hour sessions (no shortage either, just about every pub I think), and people playing every instrument there is… last year there was a guy busking playing irish tunes on the sheng - I don’t think that’s usual, but it was fairly amazing!
Hope that helps, other people might be able to tell you more or correct anything I’ve got wrong.
Jo.
You kinda rattled my cage with that comment on registering in advance. I was thinking I’d read there is no need to do so.
From the school’s web site:
"Register for all music and dance classes at the Community Hall between 2 and 6pm on Saturday, 5th July, or at the class venues from 9.30am on Monday. The fee is €100 Euro, £80 Sterling or $120 US payable by cash or cheque to Muiris Ó Rócháin or Harry Hughes, Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy, Miltown Malbay. The fee covers all classes, workshops, lectures and recitals. Registration for the week costs students less than half price for all events.
Note that there is no need to register in advance, except in the case of piping classes (see below). Those wishing to pay in advance can do so through the organisers who will issue a receipt which is exchanged for a registration when enrolling."
Then I realized you must have been specifically addressing the pipes.
steve
Expect a very intense, stimulating week of music: concerts, recitals & sessions - people/musicians come from all Ireland, & from all over the world just about - NPU have a shop in the Community Hall where the evening recitals are held, there you’ll find just about any CD, book, reedmaking material you’ve been looking for - the street and the bars get crowded so if you find yourself in a nice session during the evening it’s best to stay put as it can be difficult to get into another session - the piper’s workshop during the daytime is a calm oasis of sorts when you realise you’re starting to burn out, you can see some interesting instruments/people there. Food can be had until the wee hours as there are street vendors - be respectful and humble and you’ll have a great memorable time and meet some very nice people I’m sure
Last november a chinese take away opened in Miltown and it’s great to have it, some change from the usual fried stuff!
Nothing quite like Chinese veg spread over a big order of chips. I know some of you will think I’m jokin’