"Not only are folk programs failing but judging from reports on bbc folk programs that remain folk clubs too are closing down."

That is sort of like saying transportation is failing because fewer people are using horse and cart these days.

I cannot speak for the UK, but since this thread was started by a person living in the U.S., I can only relate to what is happening over here.   It is true that a popular BBC show was cancelled, and the traditional folk clubs may or may not be in danger in the UK, but there is alwasys something new on the horizon. Sometimes you just need to take off blinders and you will see clearly.

Over the years, there have been radio shows that were cancelled in the U.S., but there are still hundreds available and many of the hosts that were cancelled found new gigs elsewhere.    This is not very different from any other style of specialty program. There is greater access to a wider variety of music than ever before. If you cannot find folk music on the radio or the internet, you are either living under a rock or not trying very hard.

Venues are always struggling, but alternatives have been found. The house concert series has become very popular here in the states - although it is a concept that has not caught on overseas. I understand that what passes for homes and apartments in the UK is much smaller than here in the US, so it may be difficult to draw 30 to 5o people together in a private residence, but you need to be creative.   Here in the U.S., churches and community centers became the venues of choice once the coffehouse scene died out. Build it, and they will come. While pubs might not wish to present this style of music, you can find another place if you are creative.

Festivals are also holding their own. They might not be money making operations due to rising costs, but there is a wide circuit of events across our nation that supports our community.

Don't kid yourself - folk music IS growing, as long as we do not wring our hands and say the sky is falling, we can continue to create positive messages and make the music attract. It will speak for itself, it always has. Young people are doing some amazing things, and I am confident that our future is safe.