Banjiman, some of these questions I'd need to understand a bit more about the possible options and implications, to be able to answer properly. But broadly:

Free would of course be ideal, but I've no idea whether that would be a realistic option. As to venues, hmm, public buildings perhaps (library, church, village hall etc.).

Yes, my interest would be more about small local events, focusing on local traditional folk song/music in particular. Definitely with a participatory element. Some performance, with a strong participatory ethic sorta thing.

Lizzie you have PM.