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How good are these guys?

Author: HAT
Date: 2002-08-09 15:40

I have just in the last few days seen more evidence on tv that the level of instrumental musicianship in the USA is at an astounding level.

First there was AMERICAN IDOL, to which many musicians like myself have become somewhat addicted. But this week there was a live big band backing up the singers. The arrangements were heavily cheesy but definately written with the best LA freelance players in mind.

And those guys were sensational. For the whole hour I didn't hear a note out of place from the band. WW doublings were handled with minimal fuss but total professionalism. These ww guys were undoubtedly among the best in town. It was nice to see them pick up a nice check.

It is truly amazing how some trumpet players regularly spend time way above the staff with great accuracy. Some lead trumpets on Broadway (here in NY) take portions of their books up an octave 8 times a week (and they get a special scale for doing it). The guys out west are just as good.

Incidentally, had that show been done here in NY, BB regular John Moses would likely have been among those called to play. That's how good (and well respected) he is.

Then last night the Boston Pops was on with John Williams. Normally I wouldn't even bother, but they just sounded great. Williams's music is far from easy, but he writes for the best guys in LA who sightread it like it's nothing. The Pops sounded just as good.

The important thing to remember here is that these guys played these nearly perfect and totally professional performances on very little rehearsal. Certainly less than 8 hours, probably much less. And they probably did 3-7 other such 'gigs' in the same week.

That's how good these guys are.

Something to think about, especially for those who dismiss the 'professional perspective.'

David Hattner, NYC
www.northbranchrecords.com

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