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How do you improve your stage presence?

It depends on your Genre... Play from the heart...Move with the groove, but not all the time,smile in between..D'ONT look bored...make the audience feel that you are into it as much as them...can be challenging some times when playing the same tour night after night...Have as much fun as they are....it is a special night for them...unless it's Metal then all bets are off
 
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I know one of the things I really need to improve on is my stage presence. I tend to stand still and/or look at the musicians. What are some of your tips for improving stage presence for a rock cover band bassist? Thanks!

My visual stage presence has all the entertainment value of a potted plant (actually I’m channeling John Entwistle...sure). When I start to play I don’t notice too much of the audience with the exception of the front row. Most of time I’m in a cramped amount of space because my bands are large, 8-12 members, so Verdeen White I’m not. Pretty much I’m fine with the singers being the show.
 
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Enjoy yourself.
F2487667-9920-46D3-921B-7B0D2BF031B6.jpeg
 
Personally ... to improve my stage presence I've learned this little trick...

First ...Inhale.... then Exhale.... Finally repeat the process to avoid passing out. (In reality... I'd probably be noticed if I passed out).

To me... stage presence starts in the dressing room... typically try to wear something that your audience wouldn't. If only I listened to my own advice.
 
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Ah yes, the age old problem of the bass playing statue! I was told I don't move on stage so then I started dancing around and was told I move too much on stage... go figure!
Firstly, dress for the part, clothes are a big part of the look.
Interact with the other musicians on stage
Actually have fun, believe it or not audiences get the vibe if you're genuinely having fun on stage.

I try and get everyone in a festive, positive mood before we get on and try to maintain it as the night goes on.
 
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Movement is key. I try to step away from the mic when not singing and then rush up to it when I have to sing (duh). Seems obvious, but it's an easy way to force yourself to move around.

Of course, John Entwistle was famous for barely moving at all. But then, you're not John Entwistle and neither am I.

And did any one mention not wearing shorts? ;)
Bill Wyman didn’t move much, either.
 
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There's no "one way" that works for every band/bassist.

Wanna impress the crowd?

1) If the music you're playing is fun, LOOK like it's fun. Sometimes a smile is all you need. Smile AT people. Pick people in the crowd and look right at them and smile.

2) Interact with them. If they are slammed up to the stage, high five or fist bump somebody every now and then.

3) Dress the part!!!! You will ACT like you DRESS. If you are wearing grocery shopping or lawn maintenance clothes, you will act like it. If you are wearing stage clothes, you will act like it.

"Dancing" is another story. There are musicians who cam pull that off and musicians who simply can't. If you are really uncomfortable dancing it will show.

But I think this really boils down to the point of another recent thread. Yes, you want to lock in with your drummer. Yes, you want to use non verbal communication skills to keep the band tight. But you have to FEEL the music and ENJOY yourself. If YOU don't why should the audience?

Relax. Have fun.
 
How do you improve your stage presence?
practice these:
- :)
- :D
- ;)
- :thumbsup:


:laugh: and :roflmao: are probably over the top, generally, but acceptable in certain circumstances.

:hyper: is OK --- it has its limitations.

wouldn't do this one :drool:.

:oops: should be avoided even when it happens. and these :sorry: , :unsure: .

:yawn: = never!

:bored: , :vomit: , :sour: , :( , :confused: are non-starters.



i think stage presence, conceptually, is different for everyone depending on the music and the message. i think it's more effective when everyone in the band is in on the concept --- the same image. i see lots of bands with one :hyper: and four :dead: 's. = :rollno:

good luck with your show! :thumbsup:



me:
show band = backline/rhythm section member reading music: i smile when i can/want/need to.
jazz band = i don't worry about it. i can feel that i'm more 'animated' during the occasional solo.
Lmao!! Great!!:roflmao:
 

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