This is a fine thread, but it depressingly reminds me that people in the Western world (maybe outside of Ireland) don't sing in public much. Why should these things be a big event? Why not barbershop quartets in every barbershop, or McDonalds's quartets in every McDonalds, or laundromat singers? Why shouldn't the airports, restaurants, streets be filled with ordinary people raising their voices in song, pulling instruments out, etc.? What kind of a stupid, passive culture is this!!!
(Sorry to creep this thread -- it just struck me as crazy. I am happy to celebrate these sudden moments of delight. But what a comment on it all).
yours, Peter T.