Russ, I certainly agree with you on that point, but realistically speaking, most of us here aren't lucky enough to play with band members at the caliber level of the musicians in the contract label videos I posted. What the arranger offers is the unique opportunity to improve our playing skill rehearsing a song (with auto accomp backup) to a level where we're finally able to hire seasoned pro musicians wanting to perform with us, yet in the meantime, allows us to gain experience rehearsing & even performing these songs on a solo gig (singing & playing the keyboard parts) or perhaps simply adding a backup singer/guitar player. The arranger provides the gig flexibility & lower band member rehearsal time & expense than rehearsing & working with a totally live band could. JMO.