The first song/tune should be one with which you are intimately familiar - one that you could do in your sleep. It's the one you use to get rid of the jitters, calm down, and get in your groove. Don't put your favorite new song that you learned last week in that spot 'cause you'll forget the words. Save it for mid-set when you're comfortable.

Also, a lot of strings get broken during the first tune of a set because nerves tend to make people play harder than necessary. Start with something catchy and lively, but save the red hot tunes until you've settled in a bit.

Bruce