That Jazz - Monkey Max Music and File Download

Chapter 16: So You Wanna Be in a Band: Fitting into a Jazz Ensemble
So what do your bandmates need from their fearless leader? Check out this
list for starters:
� Be a great communicator. Set simple goals and communicate those
clearly. Tell musicians exactly what you expect from them.
� Lead by example. Practice diligently, be on time, know your band’s
material better than anyone else, and treat everyone respectfully.
� Take your band places they didn’t think they could go. Choose some
songs that challenge them. Give a less assertive band member a chance
to become the centerpiece of one tune. Push yourself and others in the
group to compose original material. Check out “Stocking up on standard
songs and wild cards” later in this chapter for more about selecting
music to play.
� Don’t be a dictator. More than any other musical genre, jazz is a collective
effort. You need your bandmates as much as they need you, so
remember the golden rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated.
� Be forgiving. Everyone makes mistakes. The first time someone shows
up late, doesn’t practice, or muffs a performance, let them know that
you noticed, but that it’s okay as long as they try to do better in the
future.
� Be open to new ideas. Figure out how you think a song should sound,
but be open to new ideas after you begin rehearsing and if the song isn’t
working out. It doesn’t matter where a good idea comes from; it makes
everyone look good.
Considering band members’ contributions
Whether you join or lead a band, being a part of one involves the same kinds
of courtesies and responsibilities as when you start a new job or volunteer at
a local library or school. Being part of a band requires a degree of maturity,
and after a band agrees on shared goals, it’s the job of every member to work
toward the common good.
What does a band need from its members?
� Keep a regular practice schedule.
� Know the material.
� Own a good quality instrument and maintain it on a regular basis.
� Eat right, sleep right, and don’t do things that are bad for your health.
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