Survey on young people and folk clubs

English Dance and Song Spring 2019

This article appeared in English Dance and Song, the magazine of the English Folk Dance and Song Society. The world’s oldest magazine for folk music and dance, EDS was first published in 1936 and is essential reading for anyone with a passion for folk arts. 

Food for Thought

In November 2018, EFDSS undertook a survey of young performers under the age of 30, prompted by concerns from the Folk 21 folk club network that younger musicians are less interested in folk clubs. Those surveyed included artists, students, youth groups and many more; 120 people, from every region, replied.

This is what they had to say:

> 82% are interested in performing or do perform at folk clubs

The young people who responded named over 70 folk clubs that they had played in, and some are clearly regular performers on the folk club circuit. Of those who don’t play in folk clubs, reasons given were: unfriendly atmosphere, audiences are too old, dull and serious attitude of audiences, and too many floor spots.

> 60% are interested in performing or do perform at folk clubs

Again respondents listed clubs the length and breadth of England and clearly found clubs which are friendly and welcoming to all ages and newcomers; where the main acts are presented before the floor spots and evenings end at a reasonable time; and which are particularly supportive of young artists. Those that did not attend gave similar reasons as previously – unwelcoming, no young people attending, evenings too long for those who are working, and too male dominated for young women to feel comfortable.

> 53% would be interested in running or programming a folk club

Some young people are already involved in programming a folk club or folk music nights. Others would like to get involved but are too busy with studies or work. While there were a number of positive comments about wanting to continue traditions, many want changes to make clubs more appealing to younger audiences, and others would prefer to run sessions as they are more interested in instrumental music than singing.

We also opened up the survey to general thoughts and comments. The responses echoed the comments above, with the way folk clubs market themselves coming to the fore:

I think there is a bit of a problem with folk clubs adapting to a younger audience, and utilising modern marketing techniques to broaden their audience.

Disheartened by the mismatch between some clubs’ enthusiasm for seeing young people in the audience and for booking them as guests.

The folk clubs I have performed at have generally been extremely friendly and welcoming. As a young performer, I have felt very encouraged by the organisers and audience members.

 
Though these are responses from a small number of young people, the comments do suggest that they want to play, attend and even run folk clubs. Considering these comments, perhaps folk clubs need to look at a number of issues – in particular marketing – as well as the general attitude of organisers and their regular audiences in order to attract younger artists and attendees.

Folk 21 would welcome any suggestions from clubs, performers and anyone interested in becoming a club organiser.

Folk clubs are also invited to sign up to the Folk21 listings.

Go to folk21.org