Folk music for pay is very different in its requirements than folk music for fun.

(I seem to be disagreeing with every post here at the moment - it's not intentional, folks!)

I don't consider a paid performance any different from an unpaid one - in any way. I try and give my very best whether there's money involved or not, and most of my musical buddies are just the same. This is why I'm sceptical about the 'divide' between professional and amateur.

MtheGM's example of Bob Copper is very apt. Extend it to the acting profession, where 90% of people with an Equity card are "resting" - taking what no-acting jobs they can until the real work comes along. They don't consider themselves as anything less than professional actors while they're working as waiters or bar staff or cleaners.

If you take something seriously, you take it seriously, whether there's a payday at the end of it or not.