Location – Westgate, school
Throughout the first semester of school I was the bass player for the high school jazz band. Practices were every Wednesday morning and Friday morning before school, from 7am – 8am. However, due to volleyball practice being on Wednesday morning I only attended one practice a week. Throughout the semester I feel that I improved on my abilities as a bass player. My improvements were in the aspects of reading music, being able to improvise, confidence, and ability to perform small solos. Through these aspects the one that was a new challenge for me was performing small solos. Before the semester I did not have enough personal confidence in my ability to improvise appropriately (in keeping with the timing and the correct musical key). As I gain more confidence I found it easier to include some improvisations that deviated from the sheet music.
In order to be in a band one important aspect is group conduct, this requires being able to work with others, and being accepting of constructive criticism. All participants must be working at the right level (playing at the right volume, the right key, the right tempo). For example, no one trying to stand out during times when no one is supposed to stand out, things like that. Accepting criticism is important because as a unit, it is very likely that someone else will notice something that you’re doing wrong if you yourself don’t notice it. Even little things like advice on a musical aspect that you’re playing a bit off.
Our performances haven’t had a profound effect on the world. However, music in general can be massively influential to people. In the 60’s and 70’s music was more influential than anything else at the time. Even though our music performances didn’t change the world, hopefully we gave people a few minutes of enjoyment while that sat back, relaxed, and just listened to the notes.
Overall, I think this experience was very valuable to me as player. I built up new skills while still developing old ones. Whether as a bass player, or as a member of a band I have improved in all aspects.
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