Never let a musical opportunity go by...

Basically this means take advantage of any opportunity to play music in whatever situation is offered you, providing you are prepared to handle such situations. Although if you are invited to play then chances are those who are inviting you to play already know your abilities and enjoy your musical attributes.

I remember once I was at a local music store checking out a guitar when I was in my early 20's. Some guy walked in and began checking out a few guitars. He played a few blues progressions and I started jamming a bit on what he was playing. This must have gone on for about 10 minutes or so. Afterwards he came up to me and told me that he was the guitarist for Blues legend Big Mama Thornton, they were playing in town that night, and that I should come to the show with my axe and play on stage with them. He said he figured Big Mama would like my playing. I told him I would be there but in the end I chickened out. There are many times when I wonder what would have happened had I went to the show and played. Would my musical life be any different? I don't know...but because I never took the opportunity, I'll never be in a position to know what would have happened.

Lyle Robinson