I hear no complaints when old gits or other ageing women sing in folk clubs. What is it you don't like about Vashti? Her voice, her songs, her playing - oh no, it must be her age - due to the somewhat snide remarks by Peter K (LOL) 2nd letter, and Smedley, about "quality falling through the floor, and something about a crazy aunt" (27th May).
               
                I've never met or seen Vashti, but like me, she has not been blessed with a
resonant Earth-mother type of voice so revered in folk clubs for its "richness". So she has written songs which match the voice she uses to the best of her ability, by singing her own songs. If no-one will do it for you, you have to do it yourself - even if it does mean getting slagged off in the process.
      

                The remark about "The quality fell through the floor" was snide enough, and merely points to the fact that the sliders and button-pressers behind the scenes were not giving her enough technical acoustic assistance which a quiet voice needs. The other women in the concert would probably have blown the speakers with their catawauling. I'm sick of people being evaluated by how loud and "in-yer-face" they can be.

                Through sheer luck or right-placeness, Vashti has got further than most of us, in spite of her girl's voice: I like to think that this proves there is hope for me yet. If she were 30 or 40 years younger, you'd all be besotted like the Rusby sycophants, but on the other hand - if it had been a man we were debating - he would no doubt be allowed to drone into his dotage unassailed and appreciated!

                            Indrani.