Last time I looked, this was an ARRANGER forum. I do like playing with "real" musicians. I even sometimes let them sit in with me, rather than sit in the audience and tell each other how good they are.
Seriously, I like the freedom that being a OMB allows. It has kept me from having to get a real job for 40 years!
Both "sides" have made some good points and have some valid arguments. There is an art to making your point without insulting or hurting feelings though.
That's one of the few good things about getting old. You don't really have to care so much about what other people think. And I'm always right, so there.
By the way, thanks for the nice things said about me. Makes me feel almost adequate!
DonM