I understand what Genie is talking about. We had a St. Pat's day booking in a retirement home yesterday. The gig started at 3:00 but a lot of the residents were in their seats and waiting for us at 2:15 - they were so looking forward to the program. It went very well and the audience obviously enjoyed themselves, but the concert was next to the dining room and the staff there talked loudly as they cleaned up - even shouting across the room to one another. It was an annoying distraction.   I don't do retirement homes that often but over the years I have experienced a variety - most of the time I really enjoy it and the gig goes well. A couple of times I've been told there was a sound system provided and when I got there there wasn't (now I bring my own along just in case its needed). It is rewarding work. Oh and good point that was made earlier about dressing in cool outfits - the place I played yesterday was stifling and they had the fireplace going. My banjo playing partner showed up in an Arran sweater and was miserable!