In practical terms there is no need for most folk instrumentalists to be conscious of the existence of B# in their playing.

But equally, when somebody asserts with arrogant self assurance that there is no such thing as a B#, there is nothing wrong with pointing out their mistake.

Throwing a load of theory at a beginner may confuse them.

Telling them that there is such a thing as a B# would serve merely as one of those oddities that new musicians love to hear about and enthuse about.

I can't see how it would confuse anyone to know that B# and C are the same note.

As has been pointed out already, the same debate does not arise concerning - C# and Db.

I agree with the majority here that being unable to read does not make your playing worse or less valid.

Only an arrogant person would bvelieve it did.

But I also disagree wiith the arrogant idea that some music is somehow too mysterious to notate. If you know how, then it is possible.

No big deal.

Just music and knowledge. Both wonderful things.