I didn’t expect it to happen quite this soon or in quite this venue, but it looks as if I’m going to have my public piping debut tomorrow (Sunday).

My instructor, who otherwise seems to be a sane, perfectly rational human being, has somehow convinced me to take part in a piping and highland dance concert in Negaunee, Michigan — his home base — located about two hours from here. Several of his students will be playing. When he first suggested that I be one of them, I laughed. Surely he was kidding, I thought. But no.

I won’t be on the “big pipes.” I’m not ready for that by a long shot. But I will be playing my Gibson Firesides, struggling my way through a tune or two.

Performance anxiety? You bet. Unfortunately, I can’t think of a better way to get over the nerves than to confront them head-on. And whatever happens — whether I’m great, mediocre or tank disastrously — it should prove to be an entertaining experience.

The concert is at 1 p.m. at the bandshell, on the corner of Pioneer and Lincoln streets in beautiful downtown Negaunee.

A map

If you’re in the neighborhood, stop by. If you can’t make it, no problem. I’ll post a report as soon as my hands stop shaking.