We've come a long way from the original problem. I'm used to Irish sessions- you don't expect the punters to shut up, but if the landlord leaves the jukebox or telly running, it's time to find a new venue. In one recently, the problem wasn't the pub, but the number of dogs in the room, all barking competitively.

Similarly, the local session/ folk club is in the one and only bar in the pub, and can be rowdy. But the non- folkies are often very good, and will shut up if someone's doing a quiet spot. It helps that the landlord is one of us(*). On the other hand, I remember (more than one) folk club accessed by a windy stair through stygian gloom, ending in a cavernous ballroom, hardly heated and with about five people inside. Quiet, but all the excitement of a midnight vigil on a monastic retreat.

(*) WLD- if you fancy a trip out tonight, I'll be there, if affected by drink. Probably won't get Yellow Ribbon, but She Taught Me To Yodel is a distinct possibility.