Hmmmm, I played my first job since retiring from music about three years ago. It was Senior Citizen Center, there were about 35 people. The woman who booked me offered me every Mondays and Wednesdays at 11AM and Friday evenings --- I must have done something right.

I told her that the reason I was playing without being paid was that I wanted to get myself musically organized again. At that time I would like to be paid for my time.

I had trouble getting to the next song or request. I knew I had the song – but where in my keyboard set up and in my iPad. I lost my comfort zone, my routine; there were times when my mind went blank but I knew enough to bring what was happening to the audience and laugh with them. I had no problem singing or playing, just my routine.

I played, it felt good, (smile)
John C.