House concerts are a different breed, and your laws in the UK might prevent them.

Over the last 100 years or so, we have all been groomed to accept folk music as an entertainment source with all the trappings of show business. House concerts are a different mindset for both the audience and performer. You don't go to a house concert expecting the same atmosphere as you would in a club. The acoustics are fine. Performers actually relax a bit more and in a small room the sound is perfect. Isn't folk music about basics - do you need a sound system for that?

As to people lining up for the bathroom, it isn't as big of a problem as it may seem.   

Inviting strangers into your homes?   Many people do feel uncomfortable about that, but I have not heard of any problems. Chairs? Lawn chairs, benches and sitting on pillows are all acceptable. No one who attends expects theater seats.

Performers fees?   Generally they accept less than they would for a full blown club gig.   House concerts are a great way of "filling in the blanks" of a schedule.    Many performers actually make a decent living relying only on house concerts.   It also seems that performers do well with CD sales at events like these. It is like a tupperware party - everyone feels the need to buy something in small groups.   Performers also enjoy them because it is an opportunity to experment and get feedback that wouldn't be possible in a larger venue.

I'm not saying it is the perfect answer to the folk club issue. The U.K. might not be able to accept house concerts culturally. However, it has become an important stage here in the U.S. to help perpetuate folk music.

If you are interested in exploring the concept, I suggest a visit to this website - www.houseconcerts.com

There is a great links page that will direct you to some of the more established house concert series here in the U.S. There are more starting each week, and they are here to stay!

Ron