The studio work I've been doing is far more lucrative than the, now more occasional, live gigs, but I still like that immediate interaction with the audience...even one person who is listening intently and appreciating can make my night so much better.

We often invite people (non-musicians) to our jam sessions just to get some feedback from the "common ear" point of reference.

Surgery is always a risk, Russ, especially when we are older(over 60), and especially if it means general anesthesia, so get lots of info and opinions before going under the knife.

Good luck,

Ian