As someone who visited folk clubs in the Manchester area in the 70's when there was a plethora of clubs, I still prefer to pay to listen to 'professional' singers and musicians (or at least those skill levels might put them in that category if the economics of the 'folk music scene' allowed it). At my age I don't want to be enduring the 'this is one I wrote this afternoon' amateurism of some who see folk clubs as an easy avenue for self promotion.

Some clubs are content to remain singaround clubs with the same few attendees and who am I to say they are wrong. Hopefully they will be encouraging any young people who may attend as the average age of members is probably rather high.

Anyway, back to my point (if there is one?). The Manchester Evening News always had a folk column and events diary in the Friday issue. This was pre mobile phones, home computers, social media and so this was the main way in which I could hear about folk concerts. Others read the paper as well and I clearly remember queuing an hour before opening time to get into the Deanwater or the Golden Lion. I don't know if there is a folk column in the MEN any more as I, like many others, don't read it. So how do clubs publicise their concerts? Well, e-mail lists and social media play a big part but I'm not convinced they gather in many newcomers. Folk club websites are important and some of these are very good but they must be kept up-to-date and accurate. Facebook sites can spread the word to group members but some, myself included, are very wary of getting too involved in it. A year or so ago, I spent a couple of days publicising a concert to the local community, distributing upwards of 1000 printed leaflets. I sold 2 tickets as a result! Clearly when it comes to advertising I still have a lot to learn.

But I do think folk clubs who present guest nights need to be very proactive in promotion. It may not work but they have to try - and they must have a good website.

Here's the self promotion bit : An on-line guide to folk clubs in the Manchester UK area can be found at www.pyramidfolk.co.uk/. If there are any clubs in the area that want adding to it just let me know. If anyone is interested in setting up a similar site in other areas I'll do my best to help if I can.