Hi - I certainly can't answer the question but I do have some opinions as to when it is or is not an important one. As far as the Yellow Door is concerned (it's a coffeehouse in Montreal, Quebec - the longest running in N.A. - excuse the blatant advertisement) we book anyone who's interested in playing, who people enjoy hearing. Our performers also vary from local unknowns to stars like Stan Rogers, the Wyrd Sisters, Joni Mitchel and others. People play originals mostly but when they do covers, they range from Stan Rogers to ani difranco. Once in a while I get shit for this from some idiot who feels that being a "folk" club, we should restrict the music to only what is considered traditional folk. I however, wouldn't dream of restricting our artists in this way. The definition of what is folk music is obviously important to many, but as far as providing a venue for up and coming folk artists, folk, is whatever folk like to sing. BTW - if you're ever in Montreal on a Fri. night, come on by and catch a show.