[Dixielandjazz] Rehearsals

Dave Stoddard dhs2 at peoplepc.com
Tue Jun 12 15:26:49 PDT 2007


Dear Listers:

I have worked with traditional jazz bands at a variety of skill levels, from just-getting-started to all-star groups.  I have yet to see an ensemble that would not profit from at least some rehearsal time.  

The really good groups can get by without rehearsals most easily, but they also profit the most from limited rehearsal time.  They can learn new tunes or new routines much more quickly because of their superior musicianship.   Once such a band has mastered its repertoire it may not need further rehearsals if it plays often enough.  If it wants some special tunes for a gig, a short rehearsal is a valuable tool.

The lower echelon bands are the ones which really need the rehearsal time.  Top bands can get by with simple arrangements if they choose to, because they can blow the audience away with solo artistry.  The grinders are much less likely to do so, and profit greatly from more complex arrangements and a good ensemble sound.  That good ensemble sound takes a lot of time playing together.  Bands that get a lot of work may be able to do it on the fly, but they will develop a better reputation if the rough edges are worked off out of the sight and sound of their audience. 

Given enough rehearsal time, the grinders can mix it up with bands with a lot more talent.   Without it they will lumber along.  Bands need to learn what kinds of tunes they play best.  Moreover, different types of gigs require different sets of songs.  It is best for a new band to rehearse regularly until it has built up a couple of hundred tunes.  If the band gets a lot of work a long playlist keeps the jobs from getting boring for the players and listeners alike.

In short, rehearse!

Regards,
Dave Stoddard
Round Rock, TX      





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