My main problem with the private/public issue is that as a relatively new Mudcatter I'm often not sure whether the performer is one of us or a flitterer, so don't know whether it would be acceptable to roundly abuse a dodgy/unsuitable performance, or whether I should just applaud politely.

As was suggested last night not letting anyone sing or play until they have been compulsorily bored for a given period may be effective. Once I've sorted out a microphone I will be more than willing to bore people rigid for as long as is required.