"Money in the bank"

On this installment of @yamahamusicusa #silentbass and @laklandbasses Friday, we discuss the concept of how the woodshed can be like "money in the bank". I get really discouraged when I introduce a concept to a student..maybe a "stretch" activity...and I get the "I'll never use this..." Really? How do u know? I have spoken many times about the shed consisting of fundamentals and challenges. Some of those challenges should, IMO, include the "u never know" variety.  U have no idea what future playing situations may arise, regardless of your level and extent of involvement. It could be the gig of ur dreams!  I've experienced it personally and seen it happen with students. Why not try to prepare? As I have said many times in these talks, the more you know, the more you bring to the table musically. Besides, what better way to stay "out of a rut" than striving for something new and unknown! Ok, as usual, how? The issue here is deciding what areas to include. There are no requirements here. Since they are "you never know" areas, u may not know what they are! Start by thinking of other playing situations, u might enjoy. What skills do u need should they pop up? The usual areas of help...teacher,  colleague, band mates, etc. are also available. Examples could be, sightreading (more than just being able to read), soloing, genres outside ur current comfort zone, extended techniques, upright, fretless, extended range instruments, pedals, composition...anything that pushes the envelope, u dig? These skills added to ur shed are supposed to really extend ur knowledge and confidence and may take a LONG time to get ur head around, so be patient. They should, however, not stress or discourage you. They are only be a small part of ur shed, and designed to keep you on ur toes. My experience is "stretch" areas eventually become part of ur normal playing allowing for other stretch areas to take their place..and the process continues forever. As always, I invite your insights. #yamahamusicusa #makewaves #pirastro #glasserny #laklandbasses #sitstrings #tsunamicables #philjonesbass #uptonbassstringinstrumentcompany #basslessons  #remotelessons #www.charleysabatino.com