Hi Chico. I've played in many nursing homes, sometimes as a volunteer and sometimes as a paid gig, and I think it's a great way to get some confidence performing.

WYSIWYG said: For an old folks' home, just go in, sit in the day room, open the case, ask anyone present if they mind of you play and sing, and then just play for yourself.

Maybe you could get away with that in a small town. I wouldn't recommend it in a city. Nursing homes aren't public space - they're people's homes, and vulnerable people at that. Many will have security staff/policies to prevent random people from strolling in. And even if they don't, it's questionable manners to invite yourself in, even if you know your intentions are honourable.

A better way would be to call and ask for the activities director and make an appointment. If you've got a lot of stage fright, maybe you could arrange to be a "strolling" performer instead of doing a concert. What you would do is spend a shorter time in several different locations within the facility. That way you're playing for smaller audiences and don't need to mess around with sound systems. The only problem is that it can be a bit of a tease if you spend too short a time in each location. By the time people hear that you're there and come out, you're gone.

I also think that busking is a lot of fun. I know that many people find it intimidating; others, like me, have less stage fright busking because I know that no matter how bad I screw up, in five minutes everybody who heard it will be gone. You know yourself best, so consider if you think you'd enjoy this. You may find it psychologically easier (though probably less profitable) to start in a park rather than a busy street corner.

Others have suggested playing on front porches or park benches. I think these are also great ideas - you can get used to the fact that other people can hear you without the stress of having them pay you their full attention.

Good luck Chico, and let us know how it goes.

Marion