That Jazz - Monkey Max Music and File Download

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Part IV: I Like the Way You Play: The Jazz Musician
Aside from the little things to do to psyche yourself up for the show, make
sure that you take care of the show details ahead of time so you won’t be
stressing out while you’re trying to play:
� Plan transportation, equipment loading and unloading, and parking
ahead of time. You need more time if you have a lot of equipment, a long
road trip, or a horrific trek from the parking lot to the stage. Drummers
and guitarists need extra time to set up equipment and check their sound.
� Bring extra items for emergencies. Include reeds, sets of strings, extension
cords, headphones, patch cords, and so on.
� Find out in advance when and how you’re paid. A check before the
gig? Cash after the gig? Also ask who’s in charge of paying you. You don’t
want to be looking for a check at midnight in a roomful of people who’ve
had a few drinks.
� Ask a friend to record the show or take photos. If you want a recording
or photos, assign that to someone well in advance, and put them in
charge of the logistics. Sometimes you have to obtain press passes for
these types of activities.
� Arrange for someone to sell your CDs for you. If you plan to sell CDs at
your gig, check in advance to be sure it’s all right, too.
� Assemble the guest list. There always seems to be family and friends who
want to be on a guest list. If you need a list, put one person in charge
and make sure that you let your employer (venue manager) know about
it in advance.
The goal, according to most musicians I know, is to lose yourself in the music.
You don’t want to feel like you’re outside your body watching yourself have
an off night. Plan ahead and relax your body and soul. You want to be right
there inside the music, so absorbed that the audience and the things going
on around you are secondary.
Taking (and Polishing)
Your Show on the Road
You may not be Dave Brubeck, but the time may come when you take to the
road for a short tour or something more ambitious. Successful touring with a
band is basically successful traveling but with instruments and appointments
to make. Many local and regional groups hit the road once or twice a year.