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Double Bass Section leader
- Thread starter Andy Mopley
- Start date
The role of the principal is to get people to play as a unit. That entails supplying bowings and articulations, dynamic suggestions if not given by the conductor, to lead rhythmically and be the basis for intonation in the section. If you need to sit at an obtuse angle to do all that, go for it.
Generally speaking, the conductor will be the first source for articulation, dynamics and phrasing, but absent any feedback from them, the principal player might offer some guidance. If you are asking for advice on how to be a principal, my advice is to keep the talking/showing ratio as small as possible.
Generally speaking, the conductor will be the first source for articulation, dynamics and phrasing, but absent any feedback from them, the principal player might offer some guidance. If you are asking for advice on how to be a principal, my advice is to keep the talking/showing ratio as small as possible.
Thanks all...
Neil - the first part of your post comprehensively addresses my question. The context was as related to community orchestras and how the section leader can help the orchestra and the conductor without becoming a dictator at the same time..
I don't have the skills to be a principal, but if I ever did, I'll keep your advice in mind!!
Neil - the first part of your post comprehensively addresses my question. The context was as related to community orchestras and how the section leader can help the orchestra and the conductor without becoming a dictator at the same time..
I don't have the skills to be a principal, but if I ever did, I'll keep your advice in mind!!
- Jan 24, 2002
- 2,117
- 950
- Disclosures
- NS Design / AER Endorsing Artist
In my experience, the best ones lead by example and say very little. When you lead a section like Philadelphia or Boston, there's not much to say anyhow.
When the section is weak, you have to walk the line between getting the best results from the players and not pissing anyone off. You have to get to know the individuals and figure out when it's best to let something slide. Again, it's always best to lead by example and only speak when absolutely necessary. Any time you can avoid making an "announcement" to the whole section, you should as it can be disruptive to the rest of the ensemble. Small things like bowing changes should be said quietly to the assistant and discretely passed along.
When the section is weak, you have to walk the line between getting the best results from the players and not pissing anyone off. You have to get to know the individuals and figure out when it's best to let something slide. Again, it's always best to lead by example and only speak when absolutely necessary. Any time you can avoid making an "announcement" to the whole section, you should as it can be disruptive to the rest of the ensemble. Small things like bowing changes should be said quietly to the assistant and discretely passed along.
