Thank you to all of you who posted here on this thread about my “plight.” I’ve read all messages closely and each of you have said something for me to ponder over.

As I’ve written to Deane, it’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while now. I’ve come to the conclusion you have to know “when to hold them, and when to fold them” in that big poker game in the sky.

I’ve decided to give up the whole thing, the practicing, the acquisition and storage of equipment, the never-ending study, learning new songs, new styles, a new language (Spanish), my PA3x, etc. Not to mention the current lack of respect for professional musicians, the obnoxious people you come into contact with now, and the predictable bickering over pay and who will do it for 1/10th of what you’re charging!

I will probably still dabble in music (mostly piano), but I will play for myself only now. And the music I want to play....and for relaxation with no obligation to anyone else but me.

I’m sure I will do the occasional senior jobs and work for the few clients I have left....I DO have bills to pay. But, I’m going to look in another direction and maybe see what life is like as a non-musician for the first time.

I’m a little un-easy at this age making this decision, but sometimes “the handwriting is clearly on the wall.”

I’m also aware that maybe the “rest” will open up a new perspective for me that I need to stay in music but go in a completely different direction.

But....for now....I quit! So take this thread in any direction you want now, but I’m glad I posted it to get this input from you guys.

Mark