As early as the late 18th century, Irish immigrants arrived in New Orleans, setting up shops and integrating into the city's world-famous melting-pot culture. While much of the music that can be heard in the streets of New Orleans today can be traced back to early African influences emanating from Congo Square, the upbeat rhythms of Irish music have not faded away.

Demand for the type of collaborative, pub-style communal jam sessions that fiddle player Richie Stafford regularly leads in Ir...