I don't know why, but a pre-programmed keyboard seems to work much better than recorded backing tracks. Maybe it's just because the guy with the keyboard and chimes at my dad's place is so engaging. He seems to know his keyboard very well, and so it seems that he's playing even when he doesn't have his hands on the thing.

I'm not ready for either recorded or MIDI accompaniment; but I do have a favorite pianist, and singing with her is my favorite way to perform. And she's got a wicked sense of humor and likes to play "straight man" to my corniness.

-Joe-