Thank you, Guys.
I have a theory that this is why people want to be musicians - positive feedback. Plenty of players will tell you, "Oh, I only do it for my personal satisfaction." I have no doubt this is true, but not the "only" part. I believe it's a fundamental need to know you're pretty good at something and that others might recognize it. That's why salesmen drive expensive cars. As George Carlin put it (paraphrased) - No one sits across from your desk and applauds, yelling, "Nice paperwork, Jim!" Oh, sure, they might clang a cowbell when a sale is made, but that's just to embarrass the other guys into cranking it up a notch. But, when you're a musician, you know immediately if you're any good - people clap, or nod their head, or tap their toe, or drop a buck in your tip jar, or buy your CD, or write down your web address. That's a big, big payoff.
I hear you about good players who go "undiscovered"! Drop by our local open mike any Tuesday night! A classical player came in last night who got a standing ovation - and deserved it. We got songwriters and players with all types of day jobs they wouldn't need if they got a break or made a couple of connections.
I'm not going to be able to do this forever. I'm already getting a little arthritis, having a little trouble remembering lyrics, needing more light to see the chart. But as long as I
can do this - how can I
not do this? So, thanks - very much. And now it's
your fault I'm charged up to play another week
