That Jazz - Monkey Max Music and File Download

Chapter 16: So You Wanna Be in a Band: Fitting into a Jazz Ensemble
It’s not about making money; it’s about the experience of seeing new places,
meeting new people, and testing your talent in new settings.
Touring is one of the best ways for a band to find its own sound. Hanging out
together and performing together every day promotes a bonding experience
through a meeting of minds (some of which are intuitive and nonverbal).
Even if you don’t all get along perfectly, playing together each night forces
you to find the band’s best groove. Almost every musician I meet who’s
recorded and toured tells me that the whole process is backwards. Instead of
recording a CD and then hitting the road to support it, they’d rather write the
material, take it on the road, and then record it, after they’ve finagled the
subtle band chemistry that makes a song unique.
A lot of people give you theories about finding a unique sound, but playing,
not talking, is the best way to do it. After all, your band consists of several
musicians who all have unique personalities, interests, and musical styles.
Naturally, whatever you play together won’t sound like anyone else.
If your band is new to the notion of road trips, keep it simple the first time out:
� Book a couple of gigs each in nearby cities and take a three-day-weekend
tour.
� Book dates in advance.
� Agree on financial terms.
� Arrange times for loading in equipment, doing a sound check, and starting
the performance.
� Make travel arrangements for the group.
• You can stay in a hotel or motel or bunk with people you know.
• Travel by car, van, or private plane.
� Take a digital camera to capture cool and fun moments.
� Take care of yourself.
• Eat less and eat well.
• Drink a lot of water.
• Get a good night’s sleep (if you stay in a motel, try to book one
that’s not right next to the freeway).
• Get to the gig ahead of time so you won’t be rushed.
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