[Dixielandjazz] Straw hats, Garters, Vests, Etc.

[Robert S. Ringwald]

This talk off & on for the past several years about Jazz bands who wear 
straw hats, garters, etc is a bit tiresome.

IMHO- There is a time and place for everything.

If I am playing a Jazz festival or an event where people are actually there 
to hear the Jazz, chances are we will dress accordingly, to what the 
situation calls for.  It might be short sleeve shirts or might be a tux.

However, if we are playing for a "Roaring 20s" party or perhaps "Gay 90s" & 
are part of the atmosphere, we will dress in the period of the party.

Putting down bands who wear period costumes is about as silly as expecting 
an actor who is appearing in a play, film or TV show, not to dress the part.

My daughter who is an actress, when doing a period piece, would not be in 
the business for very long if she refused to wear clothes appropriate to the 
role that she is hired to play.

By the same token, if a client is paying me to provide atmosphere for 
his/her event, that is exactly what I will do.

Instead of the negative comments (snickering behind our hands) on the List, 
at bands who choose to wear period costumes, let's get on with the positive 
side of listening to, learning about and playing Jazz?

--Bob Ringwald K6YBV
The Fulton Street Jazz Band
The Boondockers (Jazz and Comedy)
530/642-9551