Being somewhat one of the 'older generation', but also having been a beginner once, I do agree with a lot of the issues on this thread.

Yes, beginners need to be encouraged - otherwise the folk scene will die.

On the other hand those who are not beginners should have at least practised their songs beforehand. If nerves or forgetfulness do strike very occasionally (as they do)to those of us who are, and wish to remain, unpaid performers at singer's nights or singarounds then I believe most folk club audiences will accept very occasional failures. On the other hand, if the words or chords are forgotten every time by a so-called experienced performer, then, I for one do get fed up.

At one of the clubs that we go to, there is a guy who has been around for many years (so he tells us) comes in every time with a new song that he has written. Hasn't learned either the words or the chords; brings in a music stand and his reading glasses. Result is a song performed lifelessly, with no feeling, with little audience interest. This last time, as soon as it was his turn, there was a rushed exit to the bar by several of the people in the room. I wonder whether he'll get the message?

And there is definitley no place for mobiles being on in a folk club!

However, as others have noted, a few of the other contributions to this thread have made me think about things that I do that might others might find annoying..

Grumpy Old Folkie