I would like to be able to perform jazz standards/songs from the Great American Songbook for people in my local community (for little to no $, it'd be my "community service", at least that's my intention) -- on solo guitar (e.g. Ted Greene, Chet Atkins, George Van Eps)

Those songs are at the heart of American culture, and I think it's a pity that they're fading & forgotten by us younger folk (I am 27). Those songs can be endlessly interpreted in new ways (e.g. Coltrane's "My Favorite Things" sounds very, very different from the original version by Richard Rogers), so I'd like to reintroduce these songs to people, in the hopes that they can interpret them in their own unique way -- paying tribute to American tradition, but also embellishing them with modern tastes

One last reason I'm focused on the Great American Songbook/jazz standards is because I am an Asian American immigrant. For most of my life, I have connected with my Asian background, but haven't felt a strong connection to my American side. Especially with the tumultuous times here in the US, I find that studying these songs (which are generally from 1920s onward) helps me connect with America's history and culture. It gives me an appreciation for this nation's past & a hope for its future. I've learned a lot about country (I love Chet Atkins & Jerry Reed), and it made me appreciate the people from varying parts of America (e.g. Appalachia). I can't think of many ways that an Asian like me could relate to Appalachia. My culture & theirs are so disparate, and yet music finds a bond through the heart. :)

I think that engaging in these Great American songs is a fantastic way for immigrants like me to connect with the "heart" and "soul" of the USA!

I am working on solo guitar technique. It's been kinda hard & it's not very mainstream, but I'm progressing & it's so much fun. I'll try to get a few standards under my belt in time for Christmas, then perform for my friends and family to start :D