 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: clarinetgiggirl
Date: 2003-04-22 07:42
Hi All,
I posted a thread a while ago asking how I would know if I was ready for my first gig. I received loads of very motivational advice and decided to 'Go for it'. Well, the gig was on Sunday and I am still on a bit of a high!
I followed the advice kindly posted; got a full set list with keys and persuaded the rest of the band to reherse several times. I didn't over-stretch myself, playing on just about half of the set and I mostly stuck to the tunes. OK, not that inspirational but acceptable. I even played a couple of 'features' - Hushabye (as recorded by Monty Sunshine) and Lonesome Blues (Bechet). The band dressed the part too - all in black apart from the featured singer, so I think we looked good.
The (small) pub became increasingly full and in the second half was completely packed out - 4 or 5 deep at the bar. I am also told that there was a core audience who listened throughout, staying for the entire set.
I wasn't 100% perfect, mostly because I was terribly nervous, but I was OK, and I am reasonably confident that I will be asked again.
Thanks for telling me to do it. It feels great!
CGG
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Author: diz
Date: 2003-04-22 22:26
That's wonderful! I hope it was a smoke free bar
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Author: ron b
Date: 2003-04-23 00:16
What a wonderful post, Clarinetgiggirl;
I remember you posted about this a while back. As one of the 'encouragers' I'm happy it went so well for you. You certainly bring a smile to my heart. I remember the first time I 'sat in' and the elation that went with it... a truly memorable event you'll cherish for life.
I'd like to wish you many decades of Happy Tootin' 
- ron b -
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Author: William
Date: 2003-04-23 15:12
Unfortunately, "elation and excitment" quite often turn to "bordom and indifference" after a long career of playing bars, clubs, weddings and other such gigs. Especially, if that is the only musical outlet that one has. I think that it is important to keep your musical career diversified in order to keep those creative fires burning warmly from within. After a long career playing in wind ensembles and jazz bands, I have recently (however late) returned to my classical "roots" and have joined an area semi-professional orchestra playing clarinet--and am lov'n it!!!!!
My "bottom line" (I guess) be cautious and be reluctant to put all your musical eggs in one basket. However, enjoy the excitment of the moment and congradulations on your first big gig!!!!!
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Author: Mark Pinner
Date: 2003-04-24 11:09
Stop being a prat Diz! No smoking means empty bar! Most of us professionals are in part sponsored by tobacco, grog and pokies! See you in May.
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Author: Synonymous Botch
Date: 2003-04-24 11:53
Ooo.... more 'pokies' please.
Hey clarinetgirl...
How were the pre-gig Butterflies?
How long after packing up before you could catch some Zzzs?
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Author: JMcAulay
Date: 2003-04-24 15:04
clarinetgiggirl, good for you! Action, not inaction, wins the day again. Hey, if it can't permanently damage you, try whatever it is that seems appealing.
William, I wonder if you'd tire of playing in saloons if they wanted to hear Brahms? Maybe the character of the music has become less appealing to you, rather than the character of the venue. Anyway, everyone has a preference. Mine is improvisation with a Clarinet. For "Classical relief," I sing Masses, oratorios, and the like with a Community Choir.
Regards,
Joh
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Author: clarinetgiggirl
Date: 2003-04-25 07:22
Ooohh...I even made the local paper! It was nearly a week ago, and I am still very excited about it all. I have a lesson today though, and I am sure my teacher will bring me back down to earth!
Synonymous Botch -
My pre-gig butterflies were very BAD! I was really, really, really nervous! But I am sure next time will be a little better.....
Oh, and 4 days later, I felt like I could sleep for weeks!
William -
I appreciate what you are saying, but I am an adult beginner and will stick to jazz & blues for now because this is the kind of music that I love, and with a full time day job, I have limited time to dedicate to my playing.
Thanks for all the feedback.
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Author: wjk
Date: 2003-04-25 16:57
Congratulations on a job well done---- I suspect you will play many more gigs! Once it "gets into your blood," its hard not to want to repeat the incredible high you get performing for others!
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Author: Katrina
Date: 2003-04-25 20:50
YAY!!! Congrats on the warm fuzzies you got from playing a gig!!! Isn't it the BEST?!?!?!?
I _almost_ don't consider it music unless someone's listening to me play! ;^)
Katrina
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