A fine bunch of pickers we'd be if we didn't have time for "imperfect players" and "odd instruments." I'd be stopped at the door. There is a good mix at the shop, with a variety of interests and enough levels of ability to make sure everyone who wants to learn something can. I've certainly been watching when some of the bluegrass banjo players rip off leads on the upper frets, where I rarely dare to go. And I learn more of the songs in their book, while imposing some from my own old-time collection. I perform these days primarily as a traditional jazz and ragtime piano player, so I have another songlist there. With Elson's swing-style guitar, a mandolin player steeped in gospel, Banjer's Civil War ballads and a fresh infusion of Cajun, we may just cook up something new. Or at least enjoy the effort.