Hallo Chris nice to hear from you.That night you took your Girl
friend was the only night I couldn't make it !!
The George Inn Giant Ceilidh Band normally consists of anything between 8-15 players (all weird) and was formed from musicians who attended the once a Month Session (1st Monday).(The pub forms part of the London Tour of pubs and is one of the oldest in London).
I like your suggestions Chris.
The Main Hall has a very High ceiling and a large dance floor and unless there is at least 250 dancers there is no atmosphere.The best idea is to actually put tables a chairs onto the floor reduce the dance floor size lower the lighting and for a smaller number of people it is less intimidating to get up and dance.
I have played at the hall to large audiences and it is great,go downstairs and that is packed as well,sadly it was about ten years ago.I am only speaking from experience as I have seen it recently,perhaps at other times it is more crowded,I hope someone will confirm that.
As a band we are going to stick it out, we have events at C# House for the whole of next year.Constant events at constant times attract crowds and we intend to give it a go.We get more at the dance at each event so it is worth a try.We do not make any money and barely cover expenses ,but it is great fun,it is a hobby not a business and the odd night now and then is worth all the effort.
Al