"I can't see why there's such hostility to the idea of singers getting together to sing, with no money changing hands. Musicians do this at pub sessions all the time, often with some singing too, and no one berates them for not booking paid guests."

Marje,

Perception is a funny thing. I'd seen the hostility on the thread as an attack on paid guests/ pay clubs by those who think ONLY free, informal singaounds are acceptable! I can't really see an attack the other way.... just defence!

I'm with you, I enjoy both.