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Audition Advice?

B

basskidd

Guest
Jul 25, 2011
168
15
Chicago
rudybless.virb.com
#1
Hey folks

Long story short, I'm getting ready to graduate from college and would like to start auditioning for some larger (possibly touring) bands that need a bass player.
I guess my most pressing question is: how important is it to look the part? Clothing aside (I obviously don't plan on showing up in my finest pair of tattered jeans and favoritest washed out skynyrd shirt unless the gig calls for it :p ), how important is gear? I have very good gear, and can rely on it all. However, the thing I've been toying around with is the fact that I play a 6 string, and, while I don't use any more strings than I need for any given tune, I'm worried that, if I should audition for a blues band for example, they'd look at it and be turned off by it.
Any thoughts on the subject? (PLEASE NO 4 5 or 6 DEBATES)

Any other advice you wish someone had given you about auditions?
 
#4
You definitely have the right idea about dressing the part - you're showing them that you not only would sound like a band member, you'll look like one too. As for the type of bass, it's really going to depend on the situation. Generally speaking, some sort of basic Fender style 4-string is going to be acceptable most of the time. 5- or 6-string basses, exotic woods, fancy hardware - some bands don't care, but some do. Your best bet would be to do as much homework on the band as possible, looking at videos and photos to see what previous bassists used, and go from there.

I think there's been a few threads around here about this, including one on the JMJ "Ask a Pro" section: http://www.talkbass.com/forum/f194/image-hired-gun-480026/
 
#5
If image is important to a band, and it should be to an extent, then the type of bass will be important to the look of a band. Imagine if AC/DC got a new bass player, and he played a 6-string bass.

Even if image is not a concern, preconceptions, unfortunately, are. A blues band would most likely be turned off by a 6er, simply because it is perceived as a soloists instrument, and bass typically does not solo in that type of music, although there are exceptions. It doesn't matter that you wouldn't solo unless asked, or you wouldn't go up to that string. Just having that type of bass says something about you in some people's eyes.

BTW, my main bass is a 6er. But I have some 4-bangers too for when they're more appropriate. And I'm looking to add a 5er to the stable as well.
 
#6
borrow a 4 banger for the audition if you can't afford one. The most I'd show up with is a 5er. Be on time and have a good attitude, be sober, good hygiene (LOL!!!) and if they offer you something at first (water, beer, juice etc) say no thank you. Have manuscript paper and a #2 pencil. Don't be cocky but try to give off a sense of confidence and don't get into their conversations too much and don't come off as a know it all. And guess what, you would be auditioning them too. If it doesn't feel right there may be something wrong or a bad fit. If they make you feel too comfortable that's not too good of a sign either.
 
#8
phillybass101 said:
borrow a 4 banger for the audition if you can't afford one. The most I'd show up with is a 5er. Be on time and have a good attitude, be sober, good hygiene (LOL!!!) and if they offer you something at first (water, beer, juice etc) say no thank you. Have manuscript paper and a #2 pencil. Don't be cocky but try to give off a sense of confidence and don't get into their conversations too much and don't come off as a know it all. And guess what, you would be auditioning them too. If it doesn't feel right there may be something wrong or a bad fit. If they make you feel too comfortable that's not too good of a sign either.
Click to expand...

Depends where you're auditioning, of course. Over on this side of the pond, they might think there was something wrong if you were to refuse a cup of tea!
 
#10
No matter what kind of job you are applying for, you need to look the part.

If you want to be a plumber or work at hooters, you don't need a suit at the interview. Jeans are fine and I presume a willingness to show your cleavage is the key to landing those jobs.

So yes. Look like you belong in the band.
 

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