Hi all.
As some of you may recall from my previous post, I've had a difficult time getting myself to perform even for friends and family. After all the much appreciated feedback, I wanted to follow-up and let you know that I've finally made some progress.
This past weekend, my in-laws were over. Now, you have to understand that my father-in-law tells it like it is (and I mean this in a positive way). Well, he absolutely loved my playing. I played some At The Hop, Runaway, Kansas City and others and he had a great time. He has a musical background having played guitar professionally in the 60's, so his opinion meant that much more to me.
An interesting point he made was that after seeing me play, he can now appreciate how much goes into performing these songs on an Arranger Keyboard. He and I have talked many times about a cruise he took a while ago and how there was an outstanding One-Man-Band keyboard player performing. After the show the performer explained to him how he uses MIDI files and plays along. While impressed, my father-in-law was still confused as to how much the guy was actually playing and how much was automated. After seeing my performance close-up, he understands how much effort and talent goes into playing these instruments. I personally do not use MIDI files (no criticism intended for those who do), but rather I use the Accompaniment Styles. Not only was he impressed by the playing of the songs, but he was even impressed with the timing of the button presses for changing style sections and instruments.
Anyway, I just wanted to follow-up and say thanks again for all the great advice. We have some family functions on the way and I'm now looking forward to the opportunity to play some more.

-Mike