It Isn't Always About Us

We tend to think the world revolves around us. All humans. Now throw some musical aspirations into the mix and it can be lethal.

Yesterday I had a gig to play at the 50th Anniversary Shindig thrown for the Canales, Ricardo and Marie - by their children - Steve and Karmen.
We arrived early and set up with time to spare. The room was covered in decorations which led me to believe that we as a band were under-dressed.  This looked like a tuxedo styled gig.
Jerry told me not to worry. This was the second anniversary party that he & I have worked this past year, and he also reminded me that the other was also a 50th celebration.
"100 years...," he smiled and shook his head.
His point was, they are here for reasons other than you and I. We are window dressing...we are decorations...creators of ambiance is the best we can hope for.

As the people filtered in, my apprehension increased. The women were in gowns for the most part. The men in suits. Jerry and I were in shirt and tie.
"We need jackets, at least..."
"Shhhh, relax."

When there were perhaps twenty people and they were beginning to clump at tables getting hors d'oeuvres or a drink, Jerry and I began to play.

'Ain't She Sweet.' Mild applause. 'Witchcraft.' More mild applause. I spent a lot of time on these songs, I was beginning to think something was amiss. Was my fly open? What was it?
Jerry was beaming. Was he drunk? What was I missing?
We played four more tunes and took a short break.

"Wow, they love us," Jerry said - smiling from ear to ear.
"Are we at the same function? They aren't paying attention at all. Only a handful are dancing."

We played another set. The people ate. The requisite toasts to the happily married couple were made and made again. Some cousin  with video equipment was recording the event for future generations of Canales.
We played, "Wouldn't It Be Nice." A couple of youngsters were trying their best to dance as they had seen the adults doing. It was very cute, indeed.

Nobody was looking at Jerry and I. No one came to the bandstand to compliment us. It was restaurant staff that offered food and drink.

"See kid, they are here for a party; this is not a concert or a show. As long as we don't set fire to the curtains they will have fond memories of you and me. Although they won't remember a single song we played."

I got it. I am a persistent student if nothing else. It may take awhile but I will get it. From that point on I really enjoyed myself. After all, I was here for a party.