I've been learning how to play the bass guitar the past few months. My husband plays guitar and sings and he has been very "instrumental" in my learning process. Mostly we play at home in our living room. Only one of our dogs will stay in the room with us while we practice. The other two run and hide whenever I get out my bass. I don't know why - I don't play THAT badly. A few weeks ago, we added a drummer and a fiddle player and played a gig at a nearby bar called Ouzts Too. The bandstand is outside, but at least there is a roof to keep the direct sunlight off you. It was still extremely hot and you have to keep bug spray handy.
My parents drove 1.5 hours (one way) to see and hear me play. They clapped after every song which is the kind of encouragement that any musician needs. I didn't even mind when they came up on stage to take pictures.
