I'm very interested in this thread, being one of these 'young people' who is up and coming!

I have been going to fetivals since being in the womb, singing for as long as I could talk and first picked up a guitar in my teens.
When I turned 18 I got into pub work and there I stuck for 4 1/2 years, I'm now 24 and have had a sensible job for over a year and a half which has enabled me to have more free time to pursure my musical interests. Last year I won a singers competition at Bromyard Folk Festival, I have 2 festival bookings as my prize and another on the back of my success, as it were!

I would say to these people who don't know where to go next, the only person that can motivate you into action is you.
No matter the formality of the folk clubs, go anyway, but also, go and discover others, go to festivals and enter competitions, play at singarounds, late night sessions in the beer/food tent, in the middle of the campsite with a few friends (At a sensible hour though for that one, you're not going to get anywhere if you annoy people!), just play/sing whatever it is that you do, do it lots and remember to always carry with you a big bag of patience.

If you have the time/money/capeability to record a demo of maybe 4/5 songs, this can also work in your favour but don't just randomly send it out, festival/club organisers don't really like going in blind, visit their clubs/festivals, get to know who they are, talk to them, if they're around make sure they hear you perform.

Also, never turn down a gig, unless you really genuinely can't make it, whether it be an unpaid 2 song spot, or a full night of your glorious talents for a generous fee (If you turn down a paid one can you get in touch with me so I can have it!?).

Lastly, believe in yourself, but don't eminate arrogance.

Basically just get the hell out there and do it!

muppitz x