Following up Stringsinger's comments, I am rather surprised that UK folk performers haven't mentioned what for many American folk performers are the bread and butter jobs--schools, museums, historical sites, city parks, summer recreation programs, and such things. In addition to being remunerative, these are great opportunities to teach mostly young people about culture, history, and life in general.

These opportunities generally are excellent vehicles for performers who specialize in traditional and regional music, songs, and styles, and often allow people to support themselves without touring or travelling--