So my editor rings me and says, "'Got a story for ya, Tom. Write an essay on what it's like to play piano in those lounges where nobody's paying attention and how you wish you could be playing more meaningful music. And while you're at it, contextualize it, fit in with the whole 'lounge' scene as you see it."

    Sheesh! Well, before I tell you of my history as a lounge piano playe...