Many folk musicians have to have alternative jobs regardless of this year. Coming out of this, the scene needs to think about how it supports up and coming musicians. 1/ https://twitter.com/theefdss/status/1308322354204901380

Say you’re just starting out. Many folk clubs won’t put you on if they haven’t personally heard you perform live. This sets an expectation that musicians will travel around the country playing for free or very cheap in floor spots in the hope the might be invited back 2/

Then you might get offered support gigs for better known acts. The fees for this are often not much - enough to maybe cover your petrol / train fayre and accommodation, if you’re lucky 3/

This process can go on for years. Unless you are living with parents, are individually wealthy, have some other financial support, you have to slot all this around doing a job that actually pays the bills. 4/

I played a festival last year that had “no budget” to pay me. It was set in the grounds of a stately home and had a huge sound set up. I played for free and kicked myself for doing it - never again 5/

The scene needs to do more to support emerging artists, or accept that this art form which is meant to represent the stories of the working class will only be accessible to people who have money. End thread.

Footnote: There are noteable exceptions to this, and some amazing established acts, festivals and venues that go out of the way to support up and comers - I will always be grateful to @showofhandsnews for example.