Hi Bill,
Firstly, I think I can understand your frustration and I agree Band In A Box may not be easy to fully grasp but I believe even a true novice can achieve at least something from the program. Progressing is of course dependant on how willing one is learn. Jazzman said it best, but there will be those who you eloquently describe as the "hallelujah choir" having their say but I think it is all well meaning but can be stifling all the same. For what it’s worth, I find it most productive to work out what I want to do step by step from the help files as I need it (retaining what I’ve learnt is another matter… must be gettin old ;o)
Also If I’ve ever needed to know something I just post a specific question on the forum, someone ALWAYS knows the solution (usually Mac!) I do wish you success and hope you get to grips with it ……At your own pace of course.
Dave.