Safe Notes

[micguy]

The most important thing to know when you're lost is that the wrong note at the right time is far better than the right note at the wrong time. Even if you're lost, keep playing something with the right timing - people in the audience won't notice a wrong note or two as much as if the bass drops out or you lose the feel.

I also posit that there's never really such a thing as a wrong note - it's all timing errors. That note you just played (that you don't think was a good note) is absolutely a good note. If it didn't fit there, it will, if you play it at the right time. The next measure, the next song, the next week - there's some time when that note is perfect.

 

[ThinCrappyTone]

Turn and glare at the guitarist the moment you hit a bad note

 

[nilorius]

If you are absolutely fool on solfix, nothing will save you.

 

[jmon]

To get really basic. Know the key. Which is the root note and most often the first note in any given part. Verse or Chorus ect. If you flub go back to that note. Hold that note, wait to find the rhythm and then jump back in when the measure repeats/starts over again.

Then look up like something fell or dripped on you that messed you up. Works for me. So much so my band mates laugh whenever I do it.

 

[Cougar]

To get really basic. Know the key. Which is the root note and most often the first note in any given part. Verse or Chorus ect. If you flub go back to that note. Hold that note, wait to find the rhythm and then jump back in when the measure repeats/starts over again.

Then look up like something fell or dripped on you that messed you up. Works for me. So much so my band mates laugh whenever I do it.

 

[Cougar]

Guys - So many helpful suggestions and exactly what I am looking for.

If I have time with a song, I can figure out the bassline with my ear. However, when winging it for the first time, I get in trouble. Yes - I need to improve my ear. In the meantime, appreciate your tips.

Thanks much
Cougar

 

[bbh]

As stated before, I play by ear and if I get lost, my ears tell me where to go next. It’s important to recover quickly. Sometimes you can cover a mistake by simply repeating it and even going so far as to make a motif out of it. Sometimes it’s best to ignore it so it doesn’t mess you up in the next part. I guess the main thing is, don’t dwell on it, it’s done. If you recover gracefully, it might go unnoticed or even be an idea for a better part.