hi

I can identify with Will about the non-availability of affordable quality instruments for young people way back then.

I went through the same process of buying a cheap piece of crap and only when I could afford it bought a Hofner President on the "drip".

Also agree with Will about trying to become proficient before playing in public.

We used to play in my dad's shed. He even had it "sound-proofed" so as not to disturb the neighbours too much.

But also back then there were always guys who wanted to show off and tried to horn in without being invited. Perhaps this has increased lately but I think it was ever so.

cheers

Mikel2