By Annabel Maclennan
Laura Jane sees this study as a step forward and is hopeful that it could lead to the establishment of an HR style framework.
She said: “I think that sort of framework which would include – I hope – education for all genders on how to conduct ourselves in the many facets of being a freelance musician in Scotland.
“It’s not just playing, performing or rehearsing, it’s when you start learning from teachers – you are almost peers at that point.
“That can be a blurry line if people in the class and people teaching the class are over 18.”
Dr Johnson acknowledges the difficulty in coming forward. Speaking up could lead to a loss of work for these women.
“We understand it is a difficult discussion to speak up. The folk scene is a really important part of our cultural identity, and is fragile in some respects, often involving tight-knit communities. Equally it is important that the scene is accessible and safe for people who want to participate in it.”
But it was important for Laura Jane to have her say – to be a voice for other women and to try and make a community that is so important to so many, a safer place for them.
“I think it’s important we keep this conversation open and that is the only way things can change and get better. If we are openly talking about this, then hopefully we can learn and understand each other better. If it even prevents one other person from experiencing something bad in the traditional music scene or any music scene then I think I have a responsibility to allow that.”
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the issues in this article, help is available at BBC Action Line.