[Harp-L] Re: Old Boys' Network

["Chris Canning" <chriscanning@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

>
>Often the deal is that the person/band running the open jam is getting paid
>by the bar owner who wants to see a $ return on his investment. The
>coordinator of the jam wants the regulars up first so that they show up
>repeatedly for more jams. Keeping the regular crowd of players happy and
>returning translates into liquor sales for the bar owner, who then
continues
>to support the jam. I've played sooooooooooooo many open stages, all over
>the country and planet, and I accept the usual routine because I know
that's
>the dope on how these jams run. If you return to the open stage regularaly,
>at some time you too will have "paid your dues" and become part of the
>"first up" crowd. Is it fair? No. Is it what keeps jams from folding? Yes.
>

It would appear that jams are the same in Aus. How bout the rest of the
world?


>Some tips:
>- If you can sing as well as play harp you will almost alwyas get up faster
>than just listing harp.
>- If you know how NOT to play over a vocalist, you will not get stabbed to
>death. Unfortunately many MANY guitarists do not know this rule and still
>seem to escape stabbings.
>- There are many "Gus" players who don't know that being in the set, and on
>the stage, is the only time it is acceptable to play. I've actually seem
>guitarists plug into wall sockets in the audience, turn on their amps, and
>start playing AT the players on the stage. Madnesss........
>

I think this is good advice. You need to be bold but respectful,
enthusiastic but not arrogant, pliable but not a pushover. And that's just
before you even get on stage.

Regards Chris