Re: [Harp-L] An illustrative story.

["Bob Maglinte" <bbqbob917@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David R. Fertig" <dfertig@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Monday, November 01, 2004 12:20 PM
Subject: RE: [Harp-L] An illustrative story.


> Jams and gigs are two different monsters.  And sitting in on a gig, is 
> different as well.
>
> One thing I occasionally find lacking in other harp players (indeed, other 
> players generally) is generosity, sharing and humility.   After a song, 
> offer to step down.  IF you're asked back, that's a boost, indeed.  If 
> you're not asked back up, you've refrained from foisting yourself on an 
> unappreciative audience.   They appreciate that, too.  And they may ask 
> you back sooner, knowing you won't be a hog.   And buttonhole players 
> later for feedback, sometimes it's helpful.
>
> At our Elmtree Blues Society jams (here in Pasadena, CA) usually only 
> players are invited, no audience.  We will have some good ol' pros and 
> some real raw newbies, ages from 10 to 80, with pro equip and a laid back 
> open-ness.   My approach (as the self-anointed Impresario of the EBS) is 
> that without an audience, the playing is for the players, it reduces 
> performance anxiety for the newbies and give kids and newbies a chance to 
> play with the real pros with no risk.   And everyone has fun.
>
> It's gut bucket blues under a tree, and anything is allowed as long as 
> you're polite and sharing.  People come back, including the pros, because 
> it aint' about cutting heads, just celebrating making music.  But some 
> don't get invited back, if they're not cool about being relaxed, 
> supportive and sharing.  Of course, I'm talking more about plank-spankers 
> than gobironists.
>
> At gigs of course the paid muso's need to get the job done, so if they 
> invite you up you'd damned well better not detract from their sound, no 
> matter how thrilled you are!
>
> But I for one love seeing newbies get the thrill and be given a chance, 
> even if it makes me cringe occasionally.
>
> And finally, it seems that alcohol, etc., is a common factor in 
> trainwrecks and poor listening skills.   Liquid courage is also a liquid 
> earmuff.  And weed may relax you, but also make it harder to keep track. 
> Moderation in all things, my children.   (Including moderation, but that's 
> another issue...)
>
> Of course, I know the rules, someday I hope to follow them.
>
> _Dave "Dr. D" Fertig
> ELmtree Blues Society  "Where the only dues you pay are the blues you 
> play!"

Hi Dave,
Terrific post!!!!! This is one that harp players (really ALL musicians 
REGARDLESS of what instruments that they play) should re-read many times 
over and pay CLOSE attention to, because it's the truth!!!

Sincerely,
Barbeque Bob Maglinte
Boston, MA
http://www.barbequebob.com
MP3's: http://music.mp3lizard.com/barbequebob/