You are quite right, Piers. I am indeed thick skinned and was in no way offended by your comment. I must disagree with your assetion that noterieties is not a word though -

no⋅to⋅ri⋅e⋅ty
   /ˌnoʊtəˈraɪɪti/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [noh-tuh-rahy-i-tee] Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun, plural -ties.
1.         the state, quality, or character of being notorious or widely known: a craze for notoriety.
2.         Chiefly British. a notorious or celebrated person.

The acts I mention would be quite pleased to see themselves refered to as notorious I assure you:-)

Perhaps I wasn't following the discussion, but I got the impression that it could be open-mike or a singaround Yes, you are quite right again. You was not following the discussion, but I am happy to shoulder the blame for that - I did not make it clear enough. Absolutley anyone who asks will get a performance spot on singers night. Whether they play guitar like Martin Carthy, sing like an angel or recite Vogan poetry while farting the theme from Eastenders. On a guest night however we cannot get any more than 4 support singers on. If five people ask to perform then we have a decision to make. Is it so wrong to decide to put on the ones who will provide the best entertainment?

Sorry, your last post doesn't make sense to me. It has nothing to do with people not wanting to sing big rock candy mountain because there is someone better in the room. Anyone and everyone can do what they want in front of whoever they want on a singers night. On a guest night however I am one of the organisers and have to occasinaly say no. Oh - and I have said no to notorieties as well as poor performers;-) How does that make me the villain of the piece?

Cheers

Dave