As usual, I find myself agreeing with Mr Fly.
In English tune sessions, I find that people are much more tolerant of others playing abilities, by and large.
If it's a good tune, well played, then it will be greeted with great interest, even if it was written last week.
Notice, I'm specific at mentioning "English" sessions. I wouldn't dare get my Duet out in a hard core Irish session. (Not an Anglo you see?).
Maybe the fact that the music of England was essentially broken by various wars, and the breakdown of communities, and was then rediscovered in the 60's and 70's, makes us far more forgiving (and welcoming) of newly written tunes. That arrive with no baggage, none of this "You're not playing it properly, like in the old days" attitude.
In a way, English musos have been creating a new tradition over the last 40 odd years. Absorbing other influences from far flung countries and cultures, whilst still maintaining what we can glean from old manuscripts.
(John Adams Village project, and the Hardcore English book/CD, and many others).
Actually, I'm glad I don't sing. I can find like minded musicians virtually anywhere in the country, and within minutes be playing and listening in an all inclusive way.
Without having pedants pouring scorn on my abilities.
I assume that it was like that pre 20th century? nobody judged anyone else.
The nearest that I've come to that is "The Old Hat Concert parties" in Suffolk, and "Elsies" in Edenbridge.