If it were possible to reduce, mathematically, the substance of the "why" in musical performance (for me, at least) this is it...sixth sence, or whatever. It is the spiritual connection which occurs between me and an audience, a place, or even a lyrical circumstance drawn out of the music that keeps me going. For me, like Joe, it's not always there. But when it is, its exquisite, and its real. I actually "get it" more often when listening to someone, either live or recorded, than when performing, but its a much more intense connection when I'm performing. Jeez...amazing how much spirituality just leaked out of me in one little paragraph!

--pg