oh boy --- there's enough stuff here to make three or four threads...

a) being one of those people who nearly ALWAYS sings along, I stand red-faced and embarassed for my gaffs and mistakes. In my own defense I TRY to do it quietly, and if I know another version to either shut up or do it the performers way...

b) as a performer, a capella, I have had people begin to accompany -- luckily - most have dropped out if it "doesn't work"; have had people sing along - which usually THRILLS me...though there have been times it just hasn't worked. Luckily again, most times if it isn't working the people drop out....

c) 'Spaw - regarding people who knit or sew or crochet or do other handwork...for some it is a tool to AID their concentration...I have had go-rounds with various people regarding this, as I am, again, one of those people. For me it is "note-taking" - it helps me to focus on what is happening, and without it my mind drifts. with the hand-work, I can concentrate on the speaker, singer, musician...without the handwork my mind goes off into nana land...and I don't mind "working" at retaining my concentration when I am working, but when I am doing something for enjoyment, I would really prefer not to have to work at it.