Being a forruner in England I've been puzzled about what is, or is not old time (or timey - some sort of distinction there) music as played today. I've done a thread search and found plenty on what is or is not old time music. However, all the definitions I read are comparisons to various other musical styles current today. Unfortunately, this doesn't really help me as to me it's a bit like saying living in Boulder is a bit like/not like living in Santa Fe: I've got no terms of reference that I understand.

So what does it sound like?

I presume it is played on acoustic stringed instruments; mainly guitar, fiddle and banjo. Are other instruments widely used? What about drums, pianos and accordions (of all varieties)?

Tempo. I imagine it would be played at a generally sedate and steady pace.

Lift or Bounce: Is it mainly a song style or for dancing or a mixture? If it's dancing does it have a lot of "bounce" in it to give the dancer lift or is it a flatter, smoother sound?

Is the reportoire mainly traditional or mainly new stuff?

Any other thoughts, personal views, reviews, comments or criticisms gratefully received!

Darren