Re: [Harp-L] Staring a number "naked"

[Ken Deifik <kenneth.d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bill Kumpe wrote:

> A while back, a pro player that I really respect suggested that when playing
> with a band or accompanist you have not practiced with it is better on some
> numbers to ask them to let you play a few bars "naked" with no accompaniment
> and then let them come in as they catch the groove.  Every time I have tried
> this it has not worked out well.  I really like this sound when this is done
> right and the guy I got the tip from pulls it off flawlessly every time.
> Does anybody else do this? Suggestions? Comments?

At first I was going to simply observe that better players will catch your 
groove more satisfyingly than newer players.

But thinking back on the problem as I've experienced it with tremendous 
players and moderately skilled players, it's clear to me that the onus is 
really on the groove-setter, you or me for instance, to make intentions 
clear.  It's a skill, like any other, one you learn through trial and error.

So if you find that you're not getting the groove you think you're setting, 
and the players aren't newbies, then it's worth working with someone you 
respect to figure out exactly how to clearly express the grooves you want 
when you're working with strangers.

My best error: I played a live radio show in Phenix City, AL (correct 
spelling, by the way) where I got no preparation, and a band of young 
un's.  I asked them if they knew Iko Iko, got a blank look, and bravely 
said "Follow me."

The result sucked bigtime, and it was my fault.  And it was on radio.  Yeesh.