Stuck in a Rut

[MikeyFingers]

I left my band recently and, despite prospects of starting another (more enjoyable) band, nothing's happening.
I've been playing less and less. I have nobody to play with. I don't have a lot of time available even to practice on my own. I have a 3-year-old niece who stays at home with us pretty regularly (whenever my sister stops by), and any time she hears the bass she wants to come play it too. Sure it's cute, but a spoiled 3-year-old can be stubborn as hell. So any little practice time I get becomes playtime for the baby and it's impossible to make any real progress.
I HATE playing open-mic situations but I'm desperate to get out there and start gigging again, I don't know what to do.
Any suggestions for rekindling my musical life?

[T.A.P Bass]

On the topic of the toddler, my suggestion is don't plug into your amp. I know, it sucks, but it's the only way you are going to be able to get some serious practice time in with the kiddo running around. Been there, and had to do it too... My son is going to 8 years old in a few months and now understands that when Dad is rockin' out, it's not play time for the whole family. You'll get through it.

Maybe you need to take a breather, I look at bands like I do women. I need 6 months of seperation before I jump into anything, and there has been times that I haven't touched my bass the entire time I was idle. Sure I've been rustier than hell, but that goes away rather quickly. The music and talent is in you, don't worry about not being able to tap into that creative vein...

I hope this helps...

[MalcolmAmos]

Originally Posted by MikeyFingers

...... I HATE playing open-mic situations but I'm desperate to get out there and start gigging again, I don't know what to do. Any suggestions for rekindling my musical life?

Sounds like you might be able to manage a 2:30 gig in the afternoon - on week-ends? If so people are waiting on you and your new band to play for them.

I've been playing the nursing / retirement home, county fair, birthday, fish fry, street dances, American Legion, Salvation Army, VA hospital and Sunday School picnic circuit for 10 years now. There is a need for afternoon and early evening entertainment. Doesn't pay a lot, but we eat well and there is some money. Plus you can stay as busy as you want. We're all retired so we can do the 2:30 in the afternoon thing. Got three this week. We normally have 7 to 8 gigs a month.

Most are repeat engagements, once a week or once a month word of mouth things. Start by asking at the retirement homes and the local chamber of commerce, see what comes up.

Don't shy away from nursing homes. It's a bitter sweet rewarding experience. After a few times with them you build relationships with the residence - and then one day you show up, but your special friend is no longer there...

Good luck hope you find something