Without getting involved in long-winded arguments (ie I'm sitting on the fence here), I can only say that I have the greatest respect for musicians and entertainers like the Levellers and Kath Tickell, who not only play and entertain on stage but also join in the session with the "folkies" in the pub.

Regarding amateurs, the original, and main, meaning is someone who does something for the love of it. Unfortunately several dictionaries miss this, and only refer to its derogatory sense, as someone not good enough to make money out of their "hobby" (as though money were the only worthwhile goal!).

Borodin was a chemist, Elgar a shop assistant. Amateurs!