Musicians! Countrymen! Lend me your ears

hi Folks

I know there are a few musicians 'round these parts so I thought I'd throw this out here.

I'm recently returned to playing and singing after a many year hiatus.  I'd like to find some people to recreate musically with.

How did you/do you go about making aquaintences? 

I tried a Gumtree ad but am getting requests for professional situations.  Really I want to approach things slowly, in a low stress and fun environment.

I have vivid memories of how difficult and demoralizing this process can be, but am determined to give it a proper effort.

Advice?  Stories? 

ta muchly

hi Folks

I know there are a few musicians 'round these parts so I thought I'd throw this out here.

I'm recently returned to playing and singing after a many year hiatus.  I'd like to find some people to recreate musically with.

How did you/do you go about making aquaintences?  

I tried a Gumtree ad but am getting requests for professional situations.  Really I want to approach things slowly, in a low stress and fun environment.

I have vivid memories of how difficult and demoralizing this process can be, but am determined to give it a proper effort.

Advice?  Stories?  

ta muchly

Don't know if you may have already been there done that before, but,

Two words: open mics!!

They are a great way to make a low-key entrance into a community of fellow musicians similar to one's self.

If there are any pubs, cafes, bars or restaurants near you who hold a music open mic night -- not a karaoke night, mind, but an open mic for singers/songwriters/ musicians -- then I would recommend going along to check it out as an audience member first, see what kind of people play there/hang out there, then if it suits your style, jump into the fray.

You can very quickly make like-minded friends and even have things lead to getting yourself full blown opening spots and your own gigs by and by if that's something you would ultimately like to do, too. Hope that helps.

Thanks MB.  There is one up the street from me but my first impression was not a good one.  I guess the best plan is to try more than one, and take it as it comes.

Yes, see if there are others around your area or environs -- they tend to each be different little worlds depending on who runs the evening and who tends to show up regularly to play or attend. They beauty of checking out more than one is that if one doesn't seem like your kind of hangout or people, there is likely another somewhere that just might be. Keep looking and good luck!

Cheers lady