I've been playing since I was about 10. Started on a Thomas Organ and taught myself using the "Pointer System". Then at about 16 I took lessons for about a year or so. I've played in lots of different bands. At one point in the early 80's I was gigging regularly. Even cut a record (EP) with a band. I finally got burned out. Realized it's only fun for me if I'm playing stuff I like. It may be a little selfish, but I've got to play for me, not for anyone else. So I played off and on through the 80's and early 90s. Then stopped playing for about 8 years. I've picked it back up in the spring of 2008. The old hands hurt a little now and don't respond as quickly as they used to, but in many ways I'm enjoying it more now than I ever have. I may even start looking for a band again. Who knows?