I so agree with most of the comments on this discussion.
I wanted to play so bad it hurt...and someone encouraged me
to come and sit so I could see there fingers and I knew when
to do the chord changes. I learned so much from this person, now
I am the one who has learned to encourage others to watch my hands.
No pressure, just lots of practice practice, and more practice
and all of a sudden, the confidence comes and I was in a group.
I agree, memorizing even a few songs to start with helps , alot.
I've been in the groups where the really really good players won't
give any new player a chance.
Its okay...everyone has to be themselves......
The really really good players ( with no patience )
makes me strive to
be able to play like them...
but also strive to always remember I also was a beginner....


so its wonderful to be an encourager.
Many great musicians are shy...
and laid back but watch what happens when
the music starts and their fingers start going.
Thats all from me, Mary V.