Well, I didn't respond to the original question because, as I said at the top, I really didn't understand what Shambles was saying (my ears glaze over at any kind of legal speak) - but I was interested in the subsequent discussion.

I've just read it again and followed some of the links, but I still can't follow the argument - which is why, although I campaign on most issues around this topic I've always taken a back seat on the Licensing Act. I read the posts from Shambles (and, sometimes, others), get confused, go back to the basic arguments elsewhere, then I write to my MP about that instead.

If I pick out the bones correctly (and I'm not sure I do), then I'm not sure this is really about pianos at all. If a landlord provides an old guitar or just a uke with one string the premises would be exempt?

The best solution would be, as Richard Bridge suggests elsewhere, an exemption for all un-amplified music full stop (though other licences might still be necessary). The size of the venue and the number of audients are red herrings in terms of sound pollution. If a folk venue is using a PA it is likely to be charging on the door, an can therefore probably manage a licence anyway.

Licences are not de-facto bad things.

Tom