Different folks, different strokes. There has to be an awareness that we are all different. Not everyone has the time or the facility to master 2 new songs or tunes a week. I think that it is acceptable to use crib sheets and or key notes, but only to reinforce that which you already know, as a safety net. However to fumble and stumble through a song that or tune that has plainly not been practiced or even part memorized is to sell yourself and the audience short. Amateur or pro, to stand up and argue about what you are going to do and what key it's in is an insult to the listeners and fellow musicians. I don't tend agree with Lead Fingers about much, but the "is it me next brigade" and the fumbling etc is unacceptable, why bring an instrument and put yourself up if you are not ready to commit and engage. At the other end of the scale is the person for all songs (and or tunes) for all seasons, but they all sound the bloody same. There is no one size fits all solution, nor should we ever seek to find one. However it is fair to ask all those who stand up to consider the audience and to make the effort to use their talents to the best effect possible. It is also right that the audience and fellow singers do not judge too harshly, as only the truly enlightened can see themselves as others see them
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