Will, to stop the discussion become an argument over the meaning of words; I am using the word "professional" to define musicians who make their living solely through their music, and "amateur" for people who receive no income but play for pleasure.
I am sure both groups try to give of their best when playing.
I agree there is always a market but some people assume that the "folk market" is discriminating against them unfairly. My contention is that this is not so.
john