Networking With Other Musicians; When to Walk Away

I read an ad on Craigslist for a jazz bassist and jazz drummer for a gig in Santa Cruz, California.  So I alerted my favorite drummer Stan and we proceeded to the practice.  The man who was organizing the gig is a very nice guy but clearly not ready for a serious gig, so we politely demurred and proceeded to the nearest Santa Cruz coffee shop, Coffeetopia.  I recommend it.  The coffee was, for me anyway, better than Starbucks. 

To be a working musician, you need to create as large a circle of musical associates as you can.  However, before doing that, you must be ready to gig.  Working on your own talent with practice and ongoing study is essential, plus practicing with a band, however early in its development.

However, the coffee was good and Stan and I had a pleasant chat.