I have been performing off and on for a number of years, sometimes solo, sometimes as a duo and most recently with a trio. We've got a bloke on melodeon, a gal that sings and plays the whistle, and myself on guitar and sometimes fiddle or banjo. I'm also the lead singer and so far I've gotten all the bookings, done all the arranging, provide most of the sound equipment, etc. Nevertheless I've always divided the pay equally.   Not too long ago the melodeon player backed out of a committment we'd made months ago, and for a not very good reason. The singer/whistle player blends in okay with the trio (although there are some quality problems there) but I dont think that the arrangements work with just myself and her as a duo. I called the organizers and explained - they've seen me solo and said it would be fine for me to just come and do the show. Now the other two band members are brassed off, saying even though one of us couldn't make it I should have brought the other along and shared the pay. I don't feel I was under any obligation whatsoever and was more comfortable doing my solo material, which I've honed over the years, rather than some half baked arrangements meant for a trio and performed by a duo. The show went fine and the organizers were happy. I'd be interested to hear what others think.