At Stroud Ceilidhs we have a break without a "spot". It is up to the band what they do, but we prefer the lull to be a time of social interaction. I cruise the auditorium meeting newbies, encouraging them and handing-out flyers for the next dance. It doesn't register with me if there is music (usually there isn't any).

However there is usually music before the performance, I find it more inviting, especially for the newbies who may be intimidated by a wall of socialising that they might not be able to contribute.

If the music is folkie (and it always is) I will accept the offered choices. I don't own or play CDs (except those I have reviewd for magazines) - I prefer to make music at a session to fill that need in me. As drummer I still don't get to choose the tunes. And when I sing - I have limited choice because my memory is not what it was....