You say that Irish music has "moved on" from "just" dance music, but that's exactly what I'm talking about and I'm not sure that it's ultimately a good thing. It's popular with the musicians, for sure, and those musicians are probably amongst the worst for being elitist, which was my point. It's also popular because the rest of the public has been spoilt with access to recordings and TV shows of the absolutely best of everything and takes technical wizardry and perfection for granted. But it's turning into a commodity for purchase, not folk music.

Good or bad, we just have to accept that it is so, and they are only going to get better, especially the younger ones. I do not agree that all of these technically brilliant (not the same as fast) players are any worse for being intentionally elitist, than anyone else. Some may, but you can't accuse these folk of being elitist, just because you can't match their skill. Not that I am suggesting that you are saying that.

As for what you call it, does it really matter, as long as there are places for every taste and ability? That is what we need, more venues. That will prevent us all from expecting one jar will satisfy all tastes. Is this move to more sessions, already happening?

Do many singers really believe that musicians are playing tunes, for the sole purpose of preventing them from singing and that this is being elitist? I am beginning to think that this is so.

As I said above, a good session must have tolerance, humour and sensitivity. If you have good musicians/singers with these qualities as well, an enjoyable session can be become something quite extraordinary. AMEN!