Gary
Well written and informative post as usual but I do disagree with a few points. The amounts stated for working th NH circut are really out there. I've looked into a few here. $100 an hour is outrageous to them although I did get it a few times. Most want free to $50 No thanks And after your time booking, moving,etc. what are you really getting?
Another is your mentiion of going back to the nightclubs and bars. I dreally don't think so. An older guy with an Arranger is just not gonna get hired. Don't ask me how I know. Add to that the fact that the business has taken a big dive with very few restaurants using entrtainment and the clubs want bands. Miss the good old days
But congradulation on your willingness to help the newer guys in the business, keep on going.