I went to traveling folk for the first time about ten days ago. Have to say I thought it was brilliant. They were exceptionally friendly and there was a good selection/rotation of singers. But have to say to anyone thinking of joining in anything - you have to have respect for what is already going on. If the club/session is traditional english then I think the people there have an expectation that singers will sing traditional english. If you go to an irish session, people expect you to sing irish songs. I think it is only polite to listen to what is happening, and then offer something that is appropriate.

I love to sing and I also play concertina for morris. My philosophy has always been morris music stays at the door - people usually want something different inside. I can't believe the number of times I been to morris things where as soon as you get in the bar the "melodeon chorus" plays exactly the same tunes all over again!

BTW travelling folk is spread over the most rural areas of Kent where there is no public transport - a car (and map/compass) are essential!

Good luck with the new songs Avril - listen to June Tabor, Norma Waterson, Eliza Carthy, Niamh Parsons, Kate Rusby, Bill Jones, Chris While, The Copper Family, Brass Monkey etc. etc. etc. - the beauty of folk music is that there is such a huge body of songs available, you are bound to find something to suit you, and that other people want to hear.