Archived Edition of Chromatic Musings

Good musicianship tips

A great list to bear in mind:

• Don't just be to the gig in time for the downbeat.
• If you absolutely have to sub a gig out that you've already committed to, get someone BETTER than you.
• No matter how bad the band sucks, don't play the gig with a sour look on your face.
  This is one that I have a bit of trouble with. I'm a decent poker player, but it's a bit hard for me to fake it on stage.
• When you aren't playing during a tune don't start shuffling papers or get distracted by the audience. Once the music starts everyone needs to give their complete attention to the music.
• Be ready to play by the time the rehearsal starts.
• If the music is hard, then practice it before coming to rehearsal. Don't plan on working it out there.
• Let me say it again- NEVER BE LATE TO A GIG! Always allow for unexpected delays. If it looks like you are going to be even five minutes late for a rehearsal make a phone call. He be amazed how much this will be appreciated, almost more than being on time.
• This is really bonehead level but you'd be surprised. Make sure you're dressed appropriately for the gig.
• If there's and open bar, don't start drinking before the bandleader.
• Don't be passive aggresive. If you have a problem with what is going down get it out in the open. There is nothing worse than a sulking musician. It destroys the entire energy on the bandstand and the audience picks up on it immediately.
• Don't disappear on breaks.
• Don't talk or play unnecessarily between tunes.