Re: band democracy

Robert E. Irwin ( (no email) )
Thu, 27 Feb 1997 15:46:56 -0500

David Kaczorowski wrote:
>
> 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

Hello,

There are three prerequsites for a successful musical relationship.
SENCE OF HUMOR, SENCE OF HUMOR, SENCE OF HUMOR. I think the best sound
comes from givers and not
takers.