while I agree about performers being paid well,. I frequently sing play, just because I enjoy it[I helped to run a session here in ireland] no money involved I did it because I chose to.
I too have run clubs and would like to point out that 99 percant of club organisers do it for no financial return[occasionally subsidising the club through a bad patch].while art centres may have a part to play,if they become the be all and end all,the music will no longer be of the people but just for the well heeled.
personally I enjoy both venues[ But prefer a good folk club to ahalf empty art centre.
I feel rich spiritually because I enjoy the music I play,Iknew when Ibecame a folk musician that Iwould not earn as much as I could have done in the rock world[and yes Countess I have a good enough voice to have done that] or AS a shopkeeper.that was my choice,and again iwould like to thank allthe club organisers who have supported me over the years.DickMiles