Question: Where and when does a spoon player play?

Answer: Anytime and anywhere that he can.

You should have your spoons nearby at all times. Mine ride with me everywhere I go. They are just under my car seat where I can reach my left hand down and bring them up ready to play when a good tune comes on the car radio.

You want to have them when you come upon a jam session. This can be just about anywhere and anytime. I have yet to come upon a group who doesn't move over to make room for one who shows up with an instrument in hand. You will meet some most interesting people and make some lasting friends this way.

You should slip your spoons into your pocket when you go into a genuine Mexican restaurant. There may be a travelling troubadour who will make his way to your table. Watch his eyes light up as you whip out your spoons and softly add to his music (spoons are a natural addition to Mexican music).

Have your spoons nearby when you go to dances. You may have the urge to play along with the band. One way to test this is to take a pair of teaspoons from your table and play softly along with the band. One of the band members will probably see you and give you an approving nod. During their next break they may ask you to join them in a song or two. Be ready to name several tunes on which you excel. You will probably name one in their repertoire (the fancy word meaning the songs they know how to play). If not, they can name you several they play from which you can pick the best for you.