For sure we've been here before but last night I had cause to tell someone that their efforts to accompany me weren't necessary, causing a modicum of offence in the process.

Imagine that; some fecker stomps all over my song & they take offence when I tell them to stop.

But how hard is it? If you don't know a song, just listen to it. Just because you have guitar on your knee the entire night doesn't mean you're duty bound to join in with everything - like those singers who feel they must 'sing along' with other singers in order to show their appreciation of your efforts. Or witness bodhran players who feel the urge to bash along. Arrghhh!!!

Knowing is a good thing. Listening is also a good thing. Musical sensitivity and sophistication are good things too. It makes for great nights, just as great nights are ruined by clumsy attempts at joining in assuming that it's all good enough for folk when nothing could be further from the truth.

S O'P - Still smarting.