Hi Tom - the venue in question is one you've played - the George IV

Hi Betsy - I have no problems with Vin or any other top performer (I've paid to see him on many occasions, and been privileged to catch some of his unpaid impromptu spots in his local pubs). I have, over many years, also paid many times to see other top performers - and many, many repeats too. I'm well aware of the laws of supply and demand, and can accept that the likes of Vin and Martin can easily justify fees of around £450+. I was posting from a personal perspective only (and in response to a question posed by HH).

When I first started going to folk clubs I hadn't heard of any of the guest names, and didn't care. I was delighted and amazed by the quality and talent of these musicians. My record/CD collection is now dominated by names from the folk scene - I have spend God knows how much on this music I love. The "supply" of talent is growing fast, so the "demand" inevitably is affected. These top performers have inspired thousands of people to make their own music, and the demand for venues to play may have detracted from the demand for places to listen. I will never stop being a listener and a learner - but I do know there are many on the folk scene who only want to listen to themselves; I think they're sad, but I respect freedom of choice.

Some clubs do go for safety, and the endless repeats. I tend to avoid those now. Happily for me there are several places I can go and still be surprised and delighted by new names and great new talents. I'm pretty objective when it comes to assessing quality and entertainment. I'm a bit long in the tooth now to be too impressed with poise, polish and practice. It's tough out on the folk circuit and the top earners have my respect, but endless hours of practice on a limited number of songs and a well-rehearsed database of humorous and informative chat lines does bring it's rewards, both for them and their audiences.