I stopped taking those piano bar venue gigs soon after first discovering the arranger (late 90's).
With my arranger shows, I can call all my own shots, and w/o the whiskey and late night hours.
I still work hard, but I "love" what I'm doing.

I know a couple guys, and gals, that absolutely love working the clubs, bars and restaurants. Having been there and done that I would never, never go back. Sure, I fill in for friends when they're sick, but the pay is lousy, I don't like getting home at 2 a.m., I don't like having to baby-sit drunks, and I sure don't want an owner telling me what songs to play. I'll stick with the NH jobs--better hours, better pay, and the residents and staff are usually top-notch. I think Dave loves those jobs because of all the redheads that hit on him.

Cheers,

Gary

Deane, it takes special kind of entertainer to do NH and senior type gigs. My hat goes off to those of you who do.

Ian

Well said Ian.
One man's work is another's play, and I too have chosen the latter.

Scott, we are so lucky to have such a great way of making a living.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCIUf8eYPqA

I love above tune...it says it all for us "working" musicians.

Ian