Well, you all talked me into it, so I volunteered to play piano at a local nursing home. Haven't played out in a long while, what with hearing and throat problems, and I was looking to get back into shape and resume some confidence. Had also neglected piano with recent work on banjo. So I did it, and you know what? Best audience I ever played for. While I set up, they sat around the room like potted plants; an hour later, they were clapping and smiling, singing and even dancing. One old lady even "rushed the stage," cruising up to me in her wheelchair to get a closer look. I played lots of traditional jazz and ragtime, and sang some to encourage them to do the same. Thanks to Jerry Rasmussen for several posts on the humanitarian value of these gigs, as well as the suggestions of several others. I'll be there for the Ice Cream Social every Friday, and I'll bet I get as much out of it as they will.