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chetbaker · 04-08-2004, 06:25 PM

I totally disagree with the first couple of posts! Unless you're in a band doing Maynard or Kenton stuff you can become a VERY well respected lead player with a good solid, consistant "F" and probably cover 95% 0f the lead books in any band you may be asked to play with in your carrer... even Buddy's band! I'm talking about USEABLE "GIG" NOTES...not "G-A's" that you hit in the practice room! In fact, on most of your "local" big band gigs, whether playing for a dance or outside concert, the lead player can cut the book with a good "Eb". Alot of people confuse lead players with highnote players. THERE IS A BIG...I repeat...BIG DIFFERENCE! Over the past 30 years 95% of my work has been lead playing. In fact only recently have I decided to branch out into some other types of playing that I also enjoy. A number of bands that I have worked with always have had a player, or two, that can scream (for lack of a better term!) a double "B-C" over top of the band...but...hand them a lead chart to play and they completely fold! Yes...lead playing has become more demanding over the years and, yes, it's real nice to own a couple of additional "gig-highnotes"...but...again...not absolutely necessary. FWIW...my 2 cents!

04-08-2004, 06:25 PM	#5 (permalink)
chetbaker Pianissimo User Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: GEORGIA Posts: 138	How High Is High Enough? I totally disagree with the first couple of posts! Unless you're in a band doing Maynard or Kenton stuff you can become a VERY well respected lead player with a good solid, consistant "F" and probably cover 95% 0f the lead books in any band you may be asked to play with in your carrer... even Buddy's band! I'm talking about USEABLE "GIG" NOTES...not "G-A's" that you hit in the practice room! In fact, on most of your "local" big band gigs, whether playing for a dance or outside concert, the lead player can cut the book with a good "Eb". Alot of people confuse lead players with highnote players. THERE IS A BIG...I repeat...BIG DIFFERENCE! Over the past 30 years 95% of my work has been lead playing. In fact only recently have I decided to branch out into some other types of playing that I also enjoy. A number of bands that I have worked with always have had a player, or two, that can scream (for lack of a better term!) a double "B-C" over top of the band...but...hand them a lead chart to play and they completely fold! Yes...lead playing has become more demanding over the years and, yes, it's real nice to own a couple of additional "gig-highnotes"...but...again...not absolutely necessary. FWIW...my 2 cents! __________________ Kanstul Mariachi Premier Kanstul 1525 Flugelhorn Pieces - Warb. 6ESV top/Black #3 BB - Warb. 6FLM