To those on this thread who consider a certain standard should be expected in the Folk scene...please do not forget how Folk get togethers originated in the UK....the men and women who gathered to sup ale in a barn and sing and dance when the harvest was over....the men on ships who sung to keep spirits high as they worked in adverse conditions. Almost everyone sung or performed, whether talented or not and were encouraged to by their peers. I believe that allcomers should be encouraged to sing and be praised or applauded just for the effort...as they were in Victorian times and before. They were not paid for doing it other than the ale and fare given by the farmer as goodwill when the harvest was safely in.
Please people...Folkies...don't get so important to yourselves that the average Joe doesn't cut it with you....everyone has a part to play in this life in spite of you. If you are proud of your club because you have a lot of wonderful performers....maybe you are keeping someone or several others down in favour of your quality....is that right or wrong eh?
If you feel offended by what I have said then please ask yourself why.
Best wishes, Mike.