Luckily, there’s a research project looking into just this thorny problem.
Despite what may have been published in the national media, Access Folk, a research project at the University of Sheffield, is exploring ways to increase and diversify participation in folk singing in England.
We’ve been looking into ideas for how to make folk events more inclusive and inviting. Much of the below may feel like common sense, but our research shows that very few folk clubs and events follow these basic principles, and by not doing so they may be missing out on getting new blood into the scene.
Our research has specifically focused on folk singing, but much of this advice is also relevant to morris teams, instrument sessions and other events. Do let us know in the comments if you try any of these and they work, or if you have other suggestions!
Before arrival: detailed descriptions
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to make people feel at ease is by providing detailed descriptions of your event. Newcomers often hesitate to attend because they’re unsure of what to expect. Look over your website, social media pages and publicity from an outsider’s perspective and see if it paints a clear picture.
Do you describe the venue in detail, including accessibility information and how to find you inside the building? Is it a place where people can sit and listen without feeling pressured to sing? Are there places where people can mingle or take a break if they wish to come and go, or do you expect them to stay in the room? Do you prefer them to go to the bar between songs etc…?
Accessibility is a crucial aspect. Do you know how your venue accommodates people with mobility issues? Are there ways you can support other access needs? You don’t have to solve every problem in advance, but telling people what to expect lets them make their own mind up about attending. Let people know they can ask for help or support if needed and say who they can approach for assistance and how to contact them.
A single negative experience can deter newcomers from returning, so it’s important to ensure everyone feels welcomed and comfortable.
You could also offer a glimpse into the musical side of the event. What kinds of songs are typically sung, or what tunes are played? You could create a playlist of songs, perhaps curated with input from your regular crowd. Sharing photos or short videos from previous events (with permission) can help newcomers get a feel for your style and atmosphere. What do they do if they want to perform? How can they opt out of singing? Is it a place where people can sit and listen without feeling pressured to sing? Knowing these things before they arrive can help people feel more confident in coming along.
Sheffield Students’ Union Ceilidh Society publishes tune books to help new students join in and feel comfortable at sessions quickly.
At the door: a warm welcome
A single negative experience can deter newcomers from returning, so it’s important to ensure everyone feels welcomed and comfortable. Designate a specific greeter to make people feel at ease – this could be the MC, or a regular attendee.
Some people feel overwhelmed by too much attention, so just one or two people doing this job is best. Check if they want to sing and clearly say that it’s perfectly fine to sit and listen without singing (if it is!). Find out if there’s anything they want to ask questions about, but try not to bombard them with enthusiasm!
Consider how your sessions are organised to avoid putting undue pressure on anyone. While a circle can help everyone feel included, it can also be intimidating for those who don’t want to sing. Be mindful of these dynamics and respect their choices. Less pressure now might mean they come back and sing another time. Offer support without being intrusive, and avoid making assumptions or asking personal questions about attendees’ backgrounds or abilities.
Soft introductions: fun for first-time folkies
Hosting a beginners session can be a fantastic way to involve newcomers. People feel more comfortable knowing they are there to learn and are not expected to know what to do. Beginners sessions can provide an opportunity to learn a few songs in a supportive group.
try tapping into the growing interest in folklore and the environment by organising events around seasonal themes…
Select one or two songs with strong choruses and provide word sheets to make it easier for everyone to join in. Emphasise that there’s no pressure to get it right; the goal is to enjoy singing together.
If you hold the beginner session before the main event newcomers might stay, listen, and join in as they feel ready. You could repeat the songs in the main event – now they’re trained up they might join in! Let people just listen if they prefer, or just join in choruses. It may take several visits before they feel comfortable enough to sing alone.
Connecting communities
People like attending things with friends, so you could consider what might attract local groups around you.
You could try tapping into the growing interest in folklore and the environment by organising events around seasonal themes like wassails, harvests, winter carols, supernatural beings, the sea, trees, animals, or with a strong sense of locality. If you approach community groups that share these interests, such as community gardens, choirs, or local rambling groups and invite people to attend together they may feel more comfortable.
Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment in folk singing circles is essential for building a thriving, diverse community. By implementing these strategies, you can help newcomers feel more at ease and encourage them to become part of the tradition. Whether it’s through clear event descriptions, beginner-friendly sessions, or warm personal greetings, each step toward inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging. As you embrace these approaches, you’ll not only make your events more accessible but also contribute to the growth and sustainability of folk singing as a vibrant, shared cultural experience.
Learn more about inclusion and participation in folk singing and check out our postcards, reports, podcasts and other resources on the Access Folk website.
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What a useful article well done and thank you! yes newbies do clearly need to know how (your ) clubs run.
If embarrassed by a misdominer unwitting made not made to feel welcome, facing a sea of miserable faces puts you off for life!
Informing by the MC at the beginning that drinks need to be purchased between artists or songs. And also to remind people during the evening if during the drinking process they acquire dementia and forget!!!
Not to talk through someone’s turn, especially if you’ve just come off the stage and we have listened politely to you even though you should perhaps have practiced a bit more!!
Do drink copious amounts after your turn to tell a story, one to give you courage ok, but so many that you forget what you started will not find me returning!