Diane and various others support the the big venue approach

Er, no, not quite. What I am asking for is properly and professionally run venues with good working conditions, proper rates of pay, a good deal for punters who pay a fair price, and wonderful music and all this preferably not all seated in rows with no room for dancing.

I've felt alienated at some large venues where the (lack of) ambience detracted hugely from the quality of the music as well as at some giant festivals which ran like clockwork but lacked any vestige of soul. On the other hand, I've had the most fantastic time at the most shambolic, tiny gatherings (though I suspect no-one whinged about monetary shortcomings because they were enjoying themselves so much).

The balance may not be instantly achievable but it can happen with thought and planning.