Aw, Bob, we haven't really talked the subject to death. It's more than just a book we're talking about - it's how to run a song gathering, and how to get people to sing, and how to keep the quality up without excluding people. I think most of us know there are good points on both sides of the discussion - but where do we find the happy median?

I think it's fine to use songbooks at song gatherings, but I'm well aware of the shortcomings of that practice. I went caroling at retirement homes a dozen times this month, and I was dismayed that most of the singers never looked up from their song sheets. I think that human eye contact is essential in singing - and most good singers have good eye contact, whether or not they use a songbook. Sometimes when I find singers with their noses too deep in the book, I'll lead a camp song, sometimes one with hand motions - that often breaks the nose-in-the-book cycle for several songs.

No, mind you, I haven't tried it; but maybe singing naked would cure the nose-in-the book syndrome. People might use the books to hide their....embarrassment.

But to have a good song session, I think you have to do more than just prohibit books and bad singers. You have to put your heart into it - and imagination and a sense of humor helps, too.

-Joe-

P.S. to Ron - Barry is not as intimidating as he sounds. It's really fun to sing with him, and he's always gentle, polite, and encouraging. And I think you'd have a wonderful time at a Getaway. I'll teach you obnoxious camp songs.