I don't see it as performers or audience. I see it as a group voice and I go to these events for the group singing. I love being with the first class performers as song leaders or participants, and I love being with the general "audience/choir" singing too. I don't see song circles as performaces..at least not the ones I like. But I think in informal groupings people get freedom of assembly if it is physically possible. If they want to do barbershop, I shouldn't come in, make them move their chairs around, and start doing I Hate George Bush songs. mg