band democracy

David Kaczorowski ( kaczordk@UMDNJ.EDU )
Wed, 26 Feb 1997 22:04:09 -0500 (EST)

I am again humbly seeking the advice of those wiser and more experienced
than myself. The guitarist problem I brought up a couple of weeks ago
seems to have resolved itself. However a new problem, with which I have
only a little experience, seems to be arising; the subject of band
democracy.

Democracy had never been an issue with other situations I was in because
there was someone in the leadership role, this trio I'm with lacks that.
I feel myself being pushed into the role. This is absolutely a position
I do not want to be in right now. Although the drummer and guitarist
both have good ideas, I seem to have the most sense in terms of how tunes
should flow and be arranged, etc. Is there a way of working this out?

Before I'm told everyone's ideas should weigh equally or be used equally
or whatever, I'd like to relay what happened in today's rehearsal.
We were working on an ending for "How Insensitive" (a bossa), and agreed
to pick-up the beat and vamp over some changes. The drummer went into a
crazed sounding double-time and even kinda ditched the Latin feel. It
was ridiculous at best. I think his ego got away from him or something.
I've known this guy for two years, I thought he could stand a little
ribbing so I cracked a few drummer jokes. Apparently he didn't find it
funny (especially after the guitarist complimented his tempo on the next
tune), he really thought it was cool to do there, and his feelings were
hurt. How should one deal with situations such as this, especially when
not wanting to assume a leadership role? Thanks.

peace,
David Kaczorowski
kaczordk@umdnj.edu