Thank you Gnu - nearly sums it up perfectly

Jim, it depends on whee you are. While I do think there are probably more people involved in traditional music in Ireland than in most other places, I think it would be foolish to suggest all, or even a majority of Irish people have an interest in Irish music. Certainly, you and I live in an area where music comes naturally and is part of life for many, that doesn't mean it is that way everywhere around the country.