>> yet another reason for a big thank you to Ted and Ivy. If anyone from EFDSS is reading this message, how about a Gold badge for them? <<

Seconded! As are the other posts praising folk clubs. The format may need to evolve (a number of clubs have had to find venues other than pubs over the last few years, and prospered as a result) and to co-exist with other types of presentation, but a good folk club is still a musical event like no other.