"You, Ron, go to Mystic.....what if groups like The Pyrates Royale, as much fun as they are, were all that was heard there?"

I would be horrified and probably stop going.   I go to Mystic and Eisteddfod because I can enjoy and learn the music that I truly love.

Yet, if the Pyrates Royale were booked for another festival -

I know some of you may not believe me, or think that I am hypocritical, but I truly love and respect traditional music. You may be at odds with my belief that there is contemporary folk music being created, but so be it.   I see a vibrant community of singer-songwriters who are creating songs for the same reasons that the traditional songs we have been talking about were created - to share stories, teach lessons, protest, and entertain.   There is a difference between these singer-songwriters and popular music and there always has been. I understand and accept that there is little support for such thought here on Mudcat, I am reassured that I am not off base. I would only hope that discussion can remain civil. I know I cracked a few jokes, and I apologize if anyone was offended. This music is very important, and I am comforted to know that it will not die because of the work many of you have done.