Lets Go to the Folk Club
© Stephen William Gray
Well, actually "club" is not a very good term. Most clubs don't have members and are unlikely to ask for subscriptions. It's basically just a bunch of folks getting together and playing / listening to music. Some clubs have guest artistes most weeks, others have only "residents" nights - which means they make their own entertainment. Some clubs are somewhere in-between because they can only afford guests every few weeks.
If there aren't any subs, who pays for the guests?
Guests are usually funded by the modest admission price - generally lower on residents nights. And of course...the raffle. The raffle is a vital part of the financial equation, so don't be miserable. You might not want the prize of a bottle of Japanese whisky, but that isn't the point - you are keeping the music alive with your £1 strip of tickets.
So....no members, no subscriptions. Are there any rules?
Yes, but they are as many and varied as the clubs themselves. Most conventions have grown with the club and are applied with a light touch, so there's no need to worry. However, there is one golden rule: Don't talk when someone is singing or playing. You wouldn't like it if someone chatted while you were performing would you?
You're right there. Okay, then I'll pop into my local folk-club this week. Will they let me play?
If it's a guest night, probably not. They like to keep the standard high to impress the guest, and time is limited. After all, people haven't paid to see you have they?
Residents nights are usually much more informal. Let the organiser (the one rushing around with a bit of paper in his/her hand) know you're new to the club and would appreciate a slot and they'll usually give you your big break. Don't expect more than a couple of songs though. If you're really hot they might ask for two more in the second half.
I've got no strings on my acoustic. Is it okay to play my Fender?
Hold on....that might be pushing it a bit far. Why not just go along first and find out what sort of music is the norm. Some clubs are more "live music clubs" than strictly folk clubs and almost anything goes. Some clubs will have an unplugged policy. In extreme cases they may not like tunes or instruments at all, and only tolerate a guitar if it is strumming a few chords in accompaniment to a song. Find out first. Get yourself known. And then try stretching the boundaries!
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