am i in over my head?

keltik · #1 08-16-2006, 08:57 PM

Howdy,
I have been propositioned by some coworkers into joining a band with them. They just want to have fun and make some side money, the fun is the main goal. These guys have had trouble finding a bass player so i figured i'd see what's up. The trouble is the drummer and the geetar player have been performing for 20+ years each and the singer has been performing for almost 10 years. I've only been "playing" the old bass for about 4 or 5 years. I ask my fellow TBer's am I out of my league or should I just go for it?

do your worst

beyondhairy · #2 08-16-2006, 09:00 PM

go for it, they just want to have fun, not get a record deal.

mrdspecs · #3 08-16-2006, 09:11 PM

Playing with people with more experience can only make you better. Don't worry about it, just play.

Munjibunga · #4 08-16-2006, 09:12 PM

It's usually best to play with players more skilled than yourself. It promotes growth.

Kruton · #5 08-16-2006, 09:15 PM

Go for it. It can only make you better (and have alot of fun in the process). And 5 years ain't too shabby.

MysticMichael · #6 08-16-2006, 09:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by keltik

The trouble is the drummer and the geetar player have been performing for 20+ years each and the singer has been performing for almost 10 years. I've only been "playing" the old bass for about 4 or 5 years.

So what? Simply playing for 20+ years doesn't make one a good musician. It only means that - all other things considered - it's more likely that one is a better musician than if one had not been playing for as many years. That's all. It doesn't account for any of the many other factors that make for good musicianship...

Have you even heard these guys play yet? Or are you faking yourself out pre-emptively - on the assumption that they must be out of your league?

Consider yourself having just received a good swift kick in the butt. If you're a real musician, then get out there and play. And if they do prove to be a lot better than you, then that's even better - because they're going to challenge you to stretch and grow. And that'll be very good for you - whether you recognize it or not...

MM

SBassman · #7 08-16-2006, 09:49 PM

Be honest about what you can and can not do ...

... and

Go For It

FriscoBassAce · #8 08-16-2006, 11:00 PM

Carpe Diem dude! Go jam with them and see how you feel. I agree with the rest of the other posts...it's much better to play with more experienced players than not to play with anyone at all!

The worst thing that can happen is that you can't satisfy yourself.

Like Nike says..."JUST DO IT!"

IanStephenson · #9 08-17-2006, 09:13 AM

They asked YOU! It's not like you told them you were great, and now have to live up to it.

A good attitude goes a long way in most band situations - express your concerns to them ONCE, so they're aware that you're aware of your limititations, and make sure you're on the same page, then just get on and do it.

Provided you're not screwing up they'll be happy to have you on board, and if you put the work in you'll catch up to them.

Ian

vindy500 · #10 08-17-2006, 09:16 AM

i voted yes, but only because i misunderstood the poll, i meant yes do it

bassguitar · #11 08-17-2006, 09:17 AM

Do it. It'll make you better. I wish I had your situation. Bon chance!

KPJ · #12 08-17-2006, 09:28 AM

I always try to be the worst musician in any band that I am in, that way I don't have to worry about the other guys dragging the band down.

Seriously, though, go for it. As mentioned previously, playing with skilled players will help you to improve as a player. Especially if you haven't had much experience playing with others.

FrigginChris · #13 08-17-2006, 02:39 PM

go for it

tplyons · #14 08-17-2006, 03:03 PM

Do it. It may be a bit intimidating at first, but it's really freeing if you ask me.

Kronde · #15 08-17-2006, 03:23 PM

Go for it. What is the worst thing that could happen to you? I guess they could say that "it isn't working out" or something. Just remember, bass players (especially those with a good attitude) are in short supply in many areas. I kinda get the feeling that if you don't go for it you may regret it in the future. Sounds like opportunity may be knocking!

All_¥our_Bass · #16 08-20-2006, 12:30 AM

Go for it!! I've only been playing about 2 1/2 years (I play almost everyday) and wish I had this kinda opportunity.

mrmoonjam · #17 08-20-2006, 01:04 AM

Sounds like an INCREDIBLE opportunity to grow as a musician and band-member!! And have a lot of fun!!! If you have doubts about playing with more experienced musicians, think about how it would be to play with musicians well below your level. Playing with better players brings my playing up a notch or 2.

Yeah, another vote for "go

for it."

Let us know what happens!

Jeff Moote · #18 08-20-2006, 01:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KPJ

I always try to be the worst musician in any band that I am in, that way I don't have to worry about the other guys dragging the band down.

I always like being the weakest member of a band too, because I know that I can push myself and grow as a musician, but I can't make others do so if they are not up to speed.

You'll learn a lot from more experienced musicians when you play with them. As long as everyone respects others' abilities, there is lots of good music to be made with a mix of abilities in a band.

tadrex · #19 08-20-2006, 01:29 AM

I just noticed this tread tonight and thought for sure I'd see a reply from you, as I scrolled down, that would say you agreed to join these guys. But nothing.

What are you waiting for?

Maybe you're just taking the weekend to think about it?

Dude, if I were you, the first thing I'd do after punching in to work on Monday would be to find these guys and say I'm in!

Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. If you go about it with the right attitude, you will only grow in the knowledge of your instrument and possibly your profession.

jady · #20 08-20-2006, 02:15 PM

Dude, if you rise to the occasion, it'll make you a better player.

If you fall on your face, it'll make you a better player.

DO IT!!!!!