What makes music attractive?

One of the defining features of folk is that everyone is a soloist. Your own stamp, your own touch is one of the most important parts of this music. It's inherent in a music where phrasing, rhythm and gesture are the defining feature - your personal touch and connection through that is of prime importance.

Of course new rhythm and gesture and phrasing types can be learnt - but still the emphasis is hugely on personal interpretation. Just like a potter, you hands help shape your music and each persons' hands are individual. Everybody can bring their own touch. When well developed it's the most beautiful thing in the world and you don't need more than that. If you do, there's generally a very specific reason.

I feel there is a parallel with this in general life - we find someone just being themselves is attractive, that being well-coordinated, being 'in' your body is attractive. Often we also find that relaxed people are attractive - that sense of ease and flow. I think music is just the same.