Whistle Stop and Matt,
Wise words to be sure. In answer to Whistle Stop, you've nailed it exactly. My goal is NOT for any type of a broad commerical CD release. I understand the importance of getting out there and performing live, in order to get your name out there and develop a following which would lead to CD sales and exposure. That however is not something I want nor plan to do (-performing live for the reasons stated in my second response in this thread.) Rather, I thought that if I did do some sort of a CD, I could make it available to friends and peers that know me, if there was an interest expressed by them in having a sample of my playing. That's really it. I just wanted to explore the notion of how much exposure can actually be generated via "word of mouth"....and the answers here tell me obviously not a whole heck of a lot if you're not out performing somewhere. How are people supposed to find out about you, if you're not out there performing / marketing your talents.

"Don't go thinking 'cause you play folk that you're something special". I appreciate your honesty and, the reality check.

Thanks guys, and to all that offered advice to my initial query in this thread. I understand much better now about all the angles of the "process".