Hi Arnie! Good to "talk" to you here!! I love your music! :)

Your story about festivals in Ontario reminds me of one festival (which I won't name)that had been my favorite festival since the late 70's. The festival started out as a great cultural experience as you mention- diverse acts, dancing, jamming, and a mix of well known performers and relatively unknown "source" singers.   The atmosphere was amazing.   Each year the crowds would swell and suddenly the promoters began going after more "names" - many that were more pop than traditional.   I rarely attend this festival anymore because they just don't get it. Now I count the days to great festivals like Old Songs, my absolute favorite!

Part of the "issue" is changing tastes.   Let's face it, singer-songwriters sell more CD's and get more airplay in general. Even though the bubble seems to have burst (or at least sprung a leak), they are the draw for contemporary audiences.   I see festivals like Old Songs, New Bedford, Champlain Valley and others continuing to prosper and always giving variety. My gut tells me they will outlive the festivals that cater soley to the singer-songwriter crowd.

Ron