As you know, I think that's been a key long-standing issue.

Let's face it; musicians and entertainers sometimes don't agree or get along sometimes.

As someone who occasionally uses an arranger in performance, I know it's a "slippery slope". A good argument can be made that basic arranger functions are still pre-recorded and are, thus, not much different from backing tracks or the new Yamaha product.

Everyone needs to be comfortable with how they go about the choices they have. As you know, my choices are, 1. Only use the arranger when it is the best choice; never as a crutch. 2. Never use backing tracks of any kind. 3. Never use a laptop on the bandstand.

These are my choices only...what's right for me.

Everyone else should knock themselves out doing what works for them.

Just remember: there are opportunities for those who still prefer to take the more traditional approach.

And that's what makes me feel good!


Russ