Not too many years ago, when I had a pair of keyboards in front of me, I used to position the stand sideways, similar to the way on-stage piano concert players performed. At the time, I also used lyrics books, which were set on a music stand and positioned low and to my left. Everyone could see my fingers at all times, but guess what--IT DIDN'T MAKE A DAMNED BIT OF DIFFERENCE!

They still would walk up to you, while you were singing and playing, and ask the dumbest damned questions while you were performing. They would stand there, waiting for you to answer their questions as if you could mysteriously sing and talk at the same time. At that point, I, and many of my counterparts, came to the conclusion that they don't realize, or for that matter care, if you can play or sing--they just want to be entertained--THAT'S ALL! OK--hands up--How many of you had someone come up to you after a performance and say "Oh, you were wonderful. You were the best DJ we ever had!" It happens all the time, and now I just smile, take the check and drive to the next job.

Save your money, forget the camera and mirrows, just wow your audiences and you'll make a decent living. Take the camera and mirrow money and buy an IRA for your kid's education, or better yet, your retirement.

Cheers,

Gary