ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the question, drawing upon research which has approached the relationship between tastes, ties and socio-demographics through a case study of a grassroots music world: the local folk-singing world in Sheffield (UK). The chapter explores the relationship between networks, tastes and their niche positions in social space by way of a detailed analysis of Sheffield's folk singing world. It offers some support for and development of Noah Mark's analysis, suggesting both that worlds occupy particular positions in social space, on account of network influences, and those pathways through worlds may be similarly shaped. The younger generation is more likely to play or sing as a group in sessions, feeling more comfortable in this environment, and they are more likely to pursue careers as professional performers. The older generation, by contrast, participate more in amateur performance contexts and often enjoy the opportunity for a solo slot afforded at many traditional folk clubs.
