kadleck

Matthew -

Keith makes some very good points. Many show conductors want everything loud & louder. If you do run into this, spend some quality practice time playing quite softly. I agree, it does focus the appeture. And, as much as I hate to say it, warming down after the show (or any big blow) is very helpful. (Again, very softly.)

As for playing sick - we all just try to work through it. It's no fun. I remember in college being incredibly ill and having to play principal on Mahler #2. Here I had wanted to play this piece my whole life - then when it finally comes up I have a cough, runny nose & fever. I got through it, and kept a box of Kleenex right next to my straight mute. Oh well.

Tony