[Dixielandjazz] Sideman Rules of Conduct

[Robert S. Ringwald]

Listmates,

Recently there was a spirited debate here on DJML regarding the conduct of 
musicians when playing gigs.

Below is some of the unspoken rules for being a sideman:


The Sideman's By-Laws:

Never recommend anyone who plays better than you.

Always suck up. (Leaders, bartenders, bride and/or groom, management, etc.)

If you don't know it, play harmony.

Double book, then choose.

Always assume the leader knows nothing.

Always degrade types of music you can't play or know nothing about.

Always bring your own business cards and solicit during breaks.

Never play requests (especially if you know it).

Never smile.

Always complain.

Save all high notes for warming up and after engagement.

Never show up sooner than 30 seconds before an engagement. (One minute if 
you have
equipment to set up.)

Never leave a book in order. Whenever possible, write on music in ink.

Always play Trane or Parker licks during fox trots, tangos, waltzes, or 
anything
in D minor.

Always open spit valves over music.

If the leader is not sure of a tune, always use substitute changes over his 
vocals
or solos.

Always worship dead jazz greats.

Be negative about anything connected with the job.

Always bring drinks back to the band stand.

When a break is over, always disappear. If this is not possible, make a 
phone call.

If you're backing up an act, talk when not playing. If it's a comic, don't 
laugh.

Always bum a ride.

Always wait until someone else is buying before you get thirsty.

Never bring your own cigarettes to an engagement.

Avoid tipping at all cost (waitresses, coat room, valet, etc.).

Always ask, "When does the band eat", or "Where's our table"?

Remember, it's not your gig. Mingle with guests and enjoy yourself.

-0-0-



--Bob Ringwald K6YBV
916/806-9551
www.ringwald.com
--
Leader, The Fulton Street Jazz Band
www.fultonstreetjazz.com
--
The Boondockers (jazz and Comedy)
www.theboondockers.com

"The bottom line of any country is, what did we contribute to the world?
We contributed Louis Armstrong." Tony Bennett  --