In Cleveland, and in Boston, there are contra dance bands that have been going for over twenty years apiece using the "Open Band" concept, i.e. regularly scheduled rehersals to which anyone may come (and I mean anyone), and appearances at contra dances at which only those who come to rehearsal can play. Its a lot of fun (so I'm told, though I haven't tried it yet), but it also creates a kind of estuary where people can develop their interest and talents in folk and traditional music. Many of our local folk musicians got their start in Mud In Yer Eye (the name of the Cleveland band).

Best Regards