Re: [Harp-L] RE: Visual appeal and harmonica / singers



God, there are as many ways to hold an audience as there are performers. Some things I've observed.

Great performers are:

Having fun
Available/vulnerable/accessible
Practiced/rehearsed/trained
Committed
Not watching themselves play/perform
In the "zone"
Having fun!!!!

Oh yeah, if you pull a mic out of a stand while performing, move the frigging stand upstage!

Gary Popenoe

On Feb 13, 2008, at 8:26 PM, "David Brown" <nonidesign@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

"visual appeal" replies to this post tend to focus on the animated or
exaggerated body activity aspect of the performer. I would like to point out
that "presence" can also be a major part of captivating an audience. As
anyone who had the good fortune to see Roy Orbison or Gene Vincent (after
the leg injury) perform can attest, sometimes less is more... while still
being incrdeibly "intimate" or captivating. Remember that when Elvis shook
his hips the world screamed, but a single whithering stare and a snarled
lip would make the world stand in silent awe.



On Feb 13, 2008 6:53 PM, Maka McMahon <makamcmahon@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:


Late last year I saw Rod Piazza and Watermelon Slim on the same bill. Both
are great showmen and make their harp playing just a part of the experience
of being entertained.


I enjoyed watching the harp players at the Blues Festival last weekend
through that 'visual appeal' perspective. Its interesting to watch what
they did when they weren't playing or singing. One guy, in a seven piece
band, didn't sing, and looked like the 'deer in the headlights' every time
he stopped playing. He was all enthusiasm when playing, but just looked as
nervous as possible the rest of the time.


Another guy, in a duo with a guitarist (and they'd only decided to play
together a week beforehand) was hoppin' and boppin' and grinnin' every time
he wasn't playing or singing. A whole different vibe and everyone's
enjoyment factor went up just because he seemed to be enjoying it all so
much.


Yet another guy (not may gals in blues harp it seems) in a three piece
with guitar and percusion, was playing pre-war delta blues (most of their
songs seemed 'death' related - it was very blue blues) and they were all
seated. He played harp on all songs and alternated between lead and backing
vocals with the guitarist. But he was always animated and tapping his foot
and kept eye contact with the crowd and looked like he was enjoying himself.


In every case, the feel in the crowd seemed to relate to how much the
players seemed to be enjoying themselves. So even if you are scared
shirtless, looking like you having a great time seems to be a significant
part of the visual appeal.


Maka


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