Calm Part II

Today on @yamahamusicusa #silentbass and @laklandbasses Friday, part II of a two part discussion on "calm".  Last week, we discussed ways to remain calm when playing.  This week we talk about ways to reduce stress during performance. The key is "preparation ". Fundamentally,  part of that is your shed time. The work you do there has to prepare you for playing situations. Some you may not have ever thought u would get (been there!). Beyond that, there is preparation for a specific gig. First, know the music...whether u have charts, or memorizing tunes...know it! If ur handed charts at the gig, the shed prep will help here to navigate them. Second, know the specifics of the gig. Ask the questions, look up the venue. Know all the details. This will greatly reduce ur stress level on gig day. When I get called, i present a "shopping list" to make sure there are no misunderstandings. EVEN with my own group! Load in time and details, dress code, parking, gear requirements, $$$, etc. Any legit person offering you a gig should have this info, or at least the means to get it. Don't be shy! This is important stuff! Ok, gig day. Make sure u have ur gear ready and in working order. Have spares of stuff like cables and batteries. ARRIVE EARLY!!!!  Not only does this show professionalism, it allows for dealing with unforseen problems. Set up, tune up and be ready. Look over the charts, or go over the set list in ur head. Ask any questions BEFORE downbeat. Once ur there, follow the guidelines covered last week. Relax, berathe, u got this. All the preparations u made will pay off. You can focus on playing and having fun. Now, you may say, "I don't  have time for all this bullsh$t". Well, do what u can. Some prep is better than none. Of course, "regular" gigs will also require less as the details and tunes will not change (or not as much) as a "new" situation. The less stressed you are, the better you will play. There is no real "how" here as in most of our discussions, but more food for thought. What can u do to reduce stress in your playing situation(s)? What is feasible? Where can u improve? It should be an ongoing thought process and each step will help. As always, I invite your insights. #yamahamusicusa #makewaves #pirastro #glasserny #uptonbassstringinstrumentcompany #laklandbasses #sitstrings #tsunamicables #philjonesbass #basslessons #remotelessons