If no one wanted to play in public (paid or otherwise), and I'm not just talking musicians here, our entertainment options would be severely limited. So, thank God for the egomaniacs.
Me, I'd rather grab a lawn chair, a cooler, and go see a mediocre band play live than sit at home listening to a CD of the best band in the world. Lets hear it for the egomaniacs.
And as far as I'm concerned, I enjoy sharing my skills and talents with others, no different than offering to help a neighbor work on a project (versus him asking first). It's really not egomania, and it's no different than offering to help someone on this board when they have a problem. I'm not trying to say, "look how good I am", I am merely saying that "I might have something to offer you". You are free to take it or leave it. When I play music in public, I hope you find enjoyment in it and get something out of it, but you are free to take it or leave it.
Of course, there is just nothing more fun than playing music (regardless of your skill level), so why not share the joy?
John
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