If it wasn't for the entertainment of others - wouldn't you just have a several little groups of musicians/singers sat around having a musical conversation - no need to take turns or be loud enough for other people across the room to hear...

Athough I don't agree with the fairness of the new licensing ( and those who know me will be aware of the work I did to opose the changes) - I think now we need to look at keeping sessions etc going and if that means the landlord getting a license (when they become available)that is what has to be - and if the licensee doesn't want a license there will be plenty of premises that will.... very few landlords (yes there are some) are in it to keep music live, most want the extra beer money over the bar...