The folk genre (awful word init?) is pretty unique amongst other music types. The percentage of participants must be massive when compared to others like Jazz, Rock or the classic music scene. This particiaption is a problem for concert type festivals where a high percetage of the potential audience prefers to make the music rather than listen. It's a problem (but a nice problem)

Folk Clubs cannot hope to attract the top festival artists (I have an email proving this from one of our "mega stars") because of the financial aspect. My club prefers to pick the best artists rather than the best publicity machines and surprisingly most of the best are willing to negotiate.

Why don't festivals have a method of allowing the session performer to contribute financially to the festival. An afternoons busking here or there or a badge (button) declaring you to be a patron (for a small donation) or a session performer concert.

No answers just comment and suggestion.

Spot