Banjoman (DEFINITELY not to be confused with me!)....my kids (6 & 8) are definitely inspired by the young "professional" folkies....far more (unfortunately) than they are inspired by their Mum & Dad (who play at home, in pubs and as semi-pros) to pick up their fiddles and play. They were marginally impressed by their Mum playing on the main stage at Saltburn Folk Fest....but this just underlines the point.

It is something about the glamour of young people and bright lights on big stages that appeals to youngsters....it definitely makes them practice harder (playing trad as well as other tunes) as well as keeping them interested..... again, I think this is probably aspirational on their part, they want to believe that they can be part of this (apparently!) glamorous lifestyle.

I use this as an example of the "professionals" encouraging young people.....do you have any examples (or other proof) to back up your claim that "the "professional folkies" who tour the circuit on a regular basis have done more harm than good to the tradition "

Paul