It would be interesting to find out what is the indefinable "something" - or combination of "somethings" that gets you regular work in the clubs. Coincidentally, I was talking on the 'phone some days ago to a guitarist who, in my and other people's estimation, is one of the greatest fingerstyle players anywhere - folk, swing, jazz. He cuts it. He's made several albums, teaching videos, etc.

The original theme of the chat was to see whether there might be a possibility of organising a guitar workshop in the Sussex area. During the conversation it transpired that this guitarist has very little work coming in - nothing until next spring (at the time of talking) - and, I have to say, I was shocked and amazed. I thought to myself, "If this bloke can't crack it, there's not much hope..." I know that there are particular circumstances to this guitarist's dilemma but, if I saw his name on a poster in my area, I'd be there like a shot.

So, I'm going to have a shot at doing what I can to get a workshop organised down here. If I can't get one going, then I shall go up to his house for a couple of hours of personal tuition and workout - it'll be worth it.