Matt: I don't care what you call it (folk or pop), but it sounds like you had a great experience that is the essence of what attracts many of us to "folk". There are magical moments when everything comes together for a great evening of sharing music and we live for them! I remember being at camp when I was young and the councilors were singing "Blowing in the Wind", "Turn, Turn, Turn", and "Elinor Rigby" (the pop tunes of the time). Ever since then I've been hooked on "folk" music.

My personal likes/dislikes have gravitated towards traditional tunes and songs because I like to research the different variations and history of what I learn. However, the central thing that attracts me is that these are songs/tunes that are meant to be sung and shared by people. Damn, your weekend makes me jealous!!! :-).

JAB:

Abby, Yes! the ARK was another magical time in my life. It was the catalyst of the Ann Arbor music community for so many years. I remember sitting on the floor at the Hill Street location, and falling backwards when I stood up (My feet had fallen asleep and the earth shoes I was wearing were tilted backwards). David Bromberg, Michael Cooney, The Bothy Band... the list goes on and on.

Back on Topic:

It seems that a catalyst usually helps create a folk community. It could be a folk club, venue, or music store. Is one enough, or do you need all three. Is it easier to maintain a music community in areas where the music originated and have a living tradition, or does that matter much anymore in our electronic age?

JAB