There seems to be some elitism being suggested which occurs on a higher level with some rather than others. I have seen the same thing expressed over people who do not use a capo over others who do. If you cannot play a chord in a key then you are less than useless...

Surely Folk is about folk, of all levels of experience and expertise, and that is what makes it so diverse. Some Folk clubs allow Country songs others not. It is all singing.

I had encepahlitis many years ago which left me with a short term memory deficit. I never realised how bad it was until I picked up my guitar again in May after a 13 year break. New songs just do not go in like they used to and I remember songs from 2 decades ago easier. So it is I use cheat sheets all the time. I really find it hard to remember all the words to new songs and the more I find the harder it is.

This does not stop me from being able to pass across some of the emotion in a song. I have been know to make people cry and not just because I have a terrible voice! ;-) Many comment about the emotionality in my singing... sometimes. Other times I am useless and a song I sang 10 times in the afternoon perfectly falls apart in the evening at a club. The cheat sheet is a great help.

But what helps me most is the attitude of those around me at the clubs I attend. These are warm, caring people, who do not judge me. They give me my turn and allow me my expression. They encourage me and share their knowledge and songs, thier emotions and compassion. My life is richer for it. THAT is what folk is about surely?

Would I charge people to hear me? Certainly not. I am not, nor never will be, good enough. I can only aspire to try and sing well and play correctly. I often fail but am also forgiven. I confess at being almost alarmed at some of the comments I have read. We all started somewhere and we all make mistakes. Some, like me, more than most.

You have given me great food for thought and I will certainly try to 'clean up my act' but try not to condemn those who try their best and make mistakes. Because of them it makes the perfect ones look even better and more polished! ;-)

Sing and let sing... that's folk for you :-)

mp