"I reminded them that the folk music era of the 1960s was focused on, and fueled by, young people in major cities such as New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, etc. who were not stirred by previous experiences or fond memories. I do not believe that nostalgia plays a significant role in creating or supporting an interest in folk music."

Interesting point.   Jerry made a statement earlier that while he wasn't a farmer, he had a connection to some of the songs he was singing.   While the connection may have had a touch of nostalgia, I think that for many "urban folkies" of the revival, folk music represented a change in values and lifestyle that appealed to young people in a post-war era.   Let's face it, youth has always been drawn to rebellion - even in subtle ways.

I spent yesterday at the Philadelphia Folk Festival, and I think they are on to something. While Newport may have thrown everything out the window, the organizers of Philly seem to have caught on to the proper mix - showing a connection from roots music to contemporary.

In particular, Steve Earle's set really woke me up. Earle uses trad instruments - banjo, guitar, etc., but he also incorprates perscussion and a mix DJ. What he is doing is the same thing the folks in Appalchia did centuries ago - taking the tools they had available and creating songs that would educate, entertain and preserve history. His songs sprout from a community.   Now, Steve Earle is a bit older, but you can see his example being followed by other young artists.

I don't think the audiences have disappeared - they just look different. The folks in the flannels and paisely have or are on the verge of moving on to different pastures and there is a young generation taking their place in a community that they will help shape and send to future generations. The old songs and traditions won't be forgotten, they are beng respected, but a new generation needs to take the great gift we have been able to share with them and make it their own.   We can't complain if they put the gems into a new setting, it was never ours to keep.