insensitive enough to think they should play the drum during an a cappella song, and expect the SINGER to keep time weith the DRUM, instead of the other way round

Peg - it's nice to hear this sentiment from someone. Locally I know one or two people with whom I am willing to sing accompianied without rehearsal - because they are both skilled enough and willing to follow the singer. Many of the musicians around play their particular variation of a song and no other. tempo and key. and ornementation.

For example - I was asked to sing the other night - started - and was brought to an abrupt halt by one of the musicians loudly declaiming - "that's the wrong key" - unfortunetly the key they wanted to play in was incompatible with my range (drat!) so the musicians ended up sitting out - except for the flute player who was able to transpose on the fly and play along with me.

Now I know I tend to drag some songs out - and certainly don't mind a musician giving me a high sign to pick up the pace - but as a singer I resent having (unasked for) accompianment launch into variations that I'm not singing! If I launch into song while a musician is palying - I certainly try to match what they are playing - not sing my own version! if I can't, I shut up.