Whistlestop, I see your point on "Instrumentalists should know when their breaks are coming up, so that they can be prepared to launch their solos", but a lot of that depends on what kind of group your with. In a "proper" band, i.e. one who plays together all the time, there should obviously be ground rules. If you are uncomfortable with solos, YOUR rule should be either "don't call on me" or "give me X amount of warning." On the other hand, if you're in a jam session, and the music you're playing has a tradition of solos, you need to assume that it's going to be your turn sooner or later. The vast majority of players that I know WANT their time in the spotlight at some point in the set.

Also, as re: stage fright. I don't normally suffer from it, having had it beaten out of me by years as a corporate trainer. I can sing, I can play my harmonica, no problem! However... make me solo with a guitar, and my comfort level is almost nil. That's because I am well aware of my limitations as a picker. The only solution is the same as the classic answer to "How do you get to Carnegie Hall?"

"Practice, Kid, Practice!"

Or as the man said, "A man's got to know his limitations!" Point to me for the solo, and I'm picking up my harp.

Peace, Blues