As I send the customary messages around to book out-of-town shows, another sign of my age becomes apparent: so many of my usual contacts are now family people, “retired” from music, moved away or- even worse- passed away.
It’s true that it used to be a lot easier to book shows away from home without the aid of a booking agent. And it’s not just because I’m older. I think people were genuinely happier to hear from musical strangers before our lives became saturated with social media correspondences. This also reminds me of how much I miss letter-writing, pen pals, and the likes. Nobody writes back any more.
All of that said, I still have to say that I love doing this. I love playing, meeting new people, and all of the satelliting chores that surround it all. I love it more than I did 15 years ago- but maybe I understand myself and what I’m doing a lot more in my advanced years that helps a lot of other things fall into place.
I am currently looking for shows in Athens OH, Columbus OH, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington DC. Any and all helps and suggestions are always appreciated.
