I have an open mike on Saturday and I'm scared to death
I have a monthly acoustic barn jam that I attend. It lasts for two hours one Saturday a month. There's about 12-15 of us who regularly show up. We sit in a circle and take turns calling songs. The one who calls the song is expected to lead the group in playing & singing. We'll also allow anyone who wants to to solo during the song while the rest of us comp.
Normally I take a pass when it's my turn to call. I don't feel comfortable leading the playing, or trying to sing while I play. I tell them that I'm quite content to just strum & hum.
The group has been very welcoming and encouraging for new players like myself. For some time now they have encouraging me to branch out and prepare a song to lead for the group. That's fine and all for them, as the host and several group regulars are all regularly gigging musicians. I am very uncomfortable putting myself out like that.
The few times a beginner like myself has tried to "branch out" it has been disastrous for them - They don't play in time, they mumble instead of sing, halt & hesitate and make mistakes while playing. Again the group is great about it, praising the attempt and encouraging them to do it again, but more than one player was so embarrassed they never came back.
This month the host/organizer has decided to do something different. The last hour will be our regular jam session, but the first hour will be open mike. I resolved that I will play a short, simple tune, just a melody with no singing, and have been practicing for the last couple of weeks.
Well with four days to go I'm scared to death of playing in front of people. I'm still struggling playing all the way through in time with no mistakes. I am greatly tempted to just blow the whole thing off.
Eastman MD-514 (F body, Sitka & maple, oval hole)
Klos Carbon Fiber (on order)
And still saving my nickels & dimes & bottle caps & breakfast cereal box tops for my lifetime mandolin.
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