The discussion here has been about singers so far, but the influence of musicians in setting the tone is very important. Both the excellent Royal Oak club in Lewes on a Thursday night and the Lewes Saturday club begin with a few sets of mainly English dance tunes for anyone with an instrument to join in.

I think this conveys the message that both clubs are primarily for traditional music. Not many singer-guitarists are interested in joining in a tunes session, at least not with their guitars; there are honorable exceptions, such as Mr. Fly.

Valmai (Lewes)