Marion, first I think that if I waited until I felt I were 'good enough' before performing in public, I'd probably never do it. And I'd miss out on a lot, because I'm convinced that much of the joy in music is in sharing it with others. And the desire to share with others is also an impetus for constantly striving to improve my technique.

Obviously, you probably wouldn't want to perform a concert for a group of fiddle 'connoisseurs' who were able to regularly hear expert fiddlers, but I don't believe it's belittling your audience to provide them with music they probably have little chance of hearing any more. Having had some experience at playing in nursing homes, I've found that the patients are generally very appreciative, but there are always those who are willing to let you know if they don't think you're spot on. So keep up the good work and best of luck to you!