Good point Jon, the organizer really is the one who decides the overall approach, and of course, that also means that the venue will be able to continue financially...

But my point is that the value of being inclusive to all the folks who would want to sing/play can bring in more money over the long run, even in the folk/trad format. The real question is, do we include people? It is easier to set up a competition and award a prize or two, than it is to be emotionally supportive of everyone who comes in the door... Most places support the "pros", and leave the rest to flounder, and this leads most of them to give up... or harden up and become unsupportive.

I don't want to give you the wrong impression here. I am quite capable of taking the heat, using the negativity to kick-ass on stage, and to put on a BIG persona... And I do well at it! But hey, what is the point of fighting wars if all the soldiers involved are mercenary...???

I especially like it when people come back because they had a good time. The simple art of learning/writing new songs and sharing them is the finest of pastimes, can be educational, and brings people together. These are good things.ttr