I played two songs at the open mic at the Third Street Coffeehouse in Roanoke (VA) last night for the second time, and had a great time. Third Street is a completely granola place -- very supportive audience, and even pretty good pumpkin cheesecake on this particular night. I'll be the featured performer on Friday, May 2, from 8:30-10:00. I hope to see some friends there.
When I got home, I realized that I'd signed up for a lot of practice between now and then. I spent the evening putting together a first draft of a set list (even though I had tons of other things I "should" have been doing). I also went over the notes I took during Jess Pilmore's set that night, where I took queues from her very seasoned performance. Hopefully, next time I play I'll even remember to unplug the guitar before walking off stage.
Oh -- and my wife and I went to see Chris Smither play at 202 Market in Roanoke on Wednesday. He was in fine form. I got his latest CD (signed, of course). During the break I told Chris that I was learning his song "Can't Shake These Blues" from his instructional video. He remarked "great! that's a hard one!", and proceeded to play it in his second set.. He told me after the show that he would have forgotten that tune if I hadn't mentioned it, so I guess it pays to open your mouth. Thanks, also, to Adam, our server that night -- he was awesome. Adam, if you're reading this, I hope you've found that voiceover work we talked about. Perhaps I'll see you at your open mic some day.