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big gig

M

mimoe218

Jan 16, 2011
16
0
#1
I've been playing bass for about 6 years. Been playing full time for the last few years. The band im currently playing with, just got asked to play winter NAMM this January. Im pretty confident in my skills,a decent player, but knowing I fall short in music knowledge when it comes to music theory and general knowledge about equipment and other areas. Looking for a little advice from you guys for playing this show in front of a crowd that will probably consist of people who are better musicians than myself. Any advice is much appreciated in advance :)
 
#2
All you have to know when playing NAMM is how to set up quickly, break down quickly, and stick to the time allotted. Nobody will question or test you on anything. It's pretty much like any other gig, except people are coming and going throughout the set. I've played there 3 times, 3 different stages, and had a blast all 3. The gigs go quickly, the rest of the hang at NAMM is more fun than the playing. :) I had a total blast every time I was there. Super sad that I won't be there this year.

Just make sure your band knows what you're playing, and know it inside out, upside down, and backwards. You'll be fine. Have fun.

PS. I know nothing (well, incredibly little) about theory, and still have a rough time knowing the notes below the 7th fret. Never stopped me from doing anything.

PS. PS. Bootsie was standing in the doorway during my last performance there. I'm going to keep thinking he was there to specifically see me. :)
 
#3
If you know what you're doing, it doesn't matter if you know theory or not.

There will always be "better" players or musicians watching you perform. Just don't make an issue out of it and do what you usually do in shows. And don't try to play "better" than you normally play or show off chops to make up for any insecurity you have... Especially when checking sound.

Wherever there are good musicians or players around you, it is better to play it simple, nice, clean and humble, like you'd do if they weren't there.

Hope that helps
 

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