The picture I am posting was taken at a show that my band recently played.  I firmly believe that music is a way of communicating, especially in the live setting.  There is always a need to connect and work your audience, especially in between songs!  In this context certain qualities such as the ability to adapt to your audience, connect with your audience, and create a sense of community are very important.  Getting the audience involved is one of the most crucial parts of a live show.  I love communicating with crowds and I usually try to relate to the audience with topics that may not even apply to our music.  It is important to just make them feel comfortable and have fun.  Sometimes it gets real awkward if the crowd happens to be a smaller one or if the energy level in the room is a little dead.  My band and I could always improve our skills in working crowds.  I would like to learn skills that allow us to adapt to any situation or crowd and speak to them whether it be with words or just our music in a way that gets everyone involved and passionate every night that we play.

-Mike Gusman