Originally Posted by: diminbut given that all goes well and I start to put the pieces together, how long does it "usually" take before you can play something that sounds acceptable and you can semi-impress the family with.

My family? It's been 20 years, and I'm still waiting to tell you. Not the most supportive bunch of my playing. :p

You'll be quicker to impress playing for the kids though. My son loves my playing. He's my biggest (read: only) fan.