[Dixielandjazz] Sacking

[Stephen G Barbone]

In my band the usual sacking order, if we must shrink the band is:

1) Trombone

2) Drummer

3) Trumpet

We do not work with less than 3, which are clarinet (because I am the  
leader/booker), double bass and guitar.
I figure you need a chord instrument and a bottom instrument in order  
to be musical.

Of course, if you have an electric piano as the chord instrument,   
which can also add bottom (bass) and a whole bunch of other things  
like strings, vibes, drums etc., he can work quite effectively alone,  
or with any mix of shrunken band. <grin>

Then too, I worked at the Showboat Casino for 15 months in a band  
without a chord instrument; It was trumpet, trombone, clarinet, tuba  
and snare drummer and quite effective as a marching group.

And this Friday, because our drummer was able to book another gig, we  
sacked him and are playing with the other 5 pieces because of venue  
budget constraints.

So I agree with Ginny. It depends on the leader, the expertise of the  
musicians and budget when one must shrink the band.

Cheers,

Steve Barbone
www.myspace.com/barbonestreetjazzband