There are quite a lot of posts on CL by players, male and female, looking for a band to join. More often than not, it seems they are asking for an "established" or already working situation. Understandable, of course it's much easier to just hop in to something that's already going, and sometimes you need to, when it's your main source of income. As a bandleader, though, I really suggest to everyone to be as open-minded about new bands, reorganizations, and startup situations as you can. There are a lot of really great players out here who have either just lost a band member, regrouping, or are putting together something new that will turn out to have some real quality. That happens especially when more than one member leaves at once, or close together. It's almost like starting over. Granted, there are a lot of flakes, wannabes, and those who just don't know how to put something together, and we all want to work a soon as possible, but you may miss a great opportunity to be part of something terrific if you only want the gravy and don't want to do any of the cooking.
Also, a word about auditions: Think of it as a job interview. Be on time. Actually, if you have gear to set up, be early, so you can start playing at the interview time. That shows your new band you don't wait til gig time to show up for setup. Be clean, and look appropriate for the gig your there for, short of maybe full stage getup. Don't do a suit for a rock gig (unless that's your image), but don't wear a ratty t-shirt and jeans for a jazz band. It shows respect for yourself, and for your prospective band.
Most importantly, bring your A game. Don't worry so much about following their arrangements, just play your best chops with taste and confidence. If you're nervous, be careful not to overplay. And check any attitude in the parking lot. Confidence is great, but arrogance and ego is just a pain in the ass for everyone, and it probably won't get you hired. Show them what you're there for, what they'll get from you onstage... give them a reason to hire you. Bring your regular gig gear, too. The effort in doing so will go a long way. They get to see your stuff, and you'll probably be more comfortable on it. Yeah, it's a little work, but again, as a bandleader, I appreciate that kind of effort. It really makes you look like you want to be involved.
All in my humble opinion.
Thanks.
Also, a word about auditions: Think of it as a job interview. Be on time. Actually, if you have gear to set up, be early, so you can start playing at the interview time. That shows your new band you don't wait til gig time to show up for setup. Be clean, and look appropriate for the gig your there for, short of maybe full stage getup. Don't do a suit for a rock gig (unless that's your image), but don't wear a ratty t-shirt and jeans for a jazz band. It shows respect for yourself, and for your prospective band.
Most importantly, bring your A game. Don't worry so much about following their arrangements, just play your best chops with taste and confidence. If you're nervous, be careful not to overplay. And check any attitude in the parking lot. Confidence is great, but arrogance and ego is just a pain in the ass for everyone, and it probably won't get you hired. Show them what you're there for, what they'll get from you onstage... give them a reason to hire you. Bring your regular gig gear, too. The effort in doing so will go a long way. They get to see your stuff, and you'll probably be more comfortable on it. Yeah, it's a little work, but again, as a bandleader, I appreciate that kind of effort. It really makes you look like you want to be involved.
All in my humble opinion.
Thanks.
