As someone who enjoys both types of music I'm certainly not offended by your expressing your preferences. In fact, thank you; I really want to hear how people feel about this from various perspectives.
Although I prefer a mixed circle, I do like the idea of having room for several circles with different styles if that's what the musicians involved prefer. At some cons, as ladylavender was saying above, they do this, and even specify particular themes for some circles.
I don't enjoy equally every song that comes up, regardless of what kind of circle it is. There's always going to be something that seems tedious compared to my personal favorites. And there are darn few performers with whom I couldn't find some fault if they asked for a critique. But I tend to think it's worthwhile to sit through some things I don't like as much, in order to have a circle where more people feel welcome.
The circles aren't just about music to me, they are about hearing what comes from the hearts and souls of the members of my community. And if I liked every performance as much as I like my favorites I'd never be able to tear myself away from the circle long enough to visit the bathroom. And that would be trouble. :)
Re: Mainstream versus filk
Although I prefer a mixed circle, I do like the idea of having room for several circles with different styles if that's what the musicians involved prefer. At some cons, as ladylavender was saying above, they do this, and even specify particular themes for some circles.
I don't enjoy equally every song that comes up, regardless of what kind of circle it is. There's always going to be something that seems tedious compared to my personal favorites. And there are darn few performers with whom I couldn't find some fault if they asked for a critique. But I tend to think it's worthwhile to sit through some things I don't like as much, in order to have a circle where more people feel welcome.
The circles aren't just about music to me, they are about hearing what comes from the hearts and souls of the members of my community. And if I liked every performance as much as I like my favorites I'd never be able to tear myself away from the circle long enough to visit the bathroom. And that would be trouble. :)