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ozboy · 02-01-2008, 05:00 AM

I have always tried to play my best no matter what the setting. At the time you least expect it, someone will hear you and the doors will open.
I got my 'big break' when I was playing to a room of about 5 people. It was one of those situations where the band could have easily decided to take it easy but we didn't.
At the end of the night, a quietly spoken gentleman who seemed to be paying no attention walked up and booked me for some really good work. He said he liked my playing and my work ethic. I have been busy ever since.
You might also seek lessons for a teaching player who might be able to head you towards a rehearsal band or sling you the odd bit of work if they think you are good enough. A Big Band often gives you exposure to like minded people.
Look for workshops or clinics where you get a chance to build experience and perform. There are often people at these that can lead to contacts.
Whatever you do, do not play for crap money. It is better not to be paid than to get a reputation for working cheaply. I played for nothing for a fair while. When I did get paid it was a fair figure. Friends of mine who worked cheaply found it impossible to get out of the rut. Obviously, you must have the goods to back it up.
Say yes to anything you can handle and say no to anything you know you can't. One bad gig takes a long time for some people to forget.
THIS IS ONLY MY OPINION SO THINK THROUGH YOUR CHOICES.

02-01-2008, 05:00 AM	#2 (permalink)
ozboy Piano User Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Australia Posts: 354	Re: So how did you get into the jazz market? I have always tried to play my best no matter what the setting. At the time you least expect it, someone will hear you and the doors will open. I got my 'big break' when I was playing to a room of about 5 people. It was one of those situations where the band could have easily decided to take it easy but we didn't. At the end of the night, a quietly spoken gentleman who seemed to be paying no attention walked up and booked me for some really good work. He said he liked my playing and my work ethic. I have been busy ever since. You might also seek lessons for a teaching player who might be able to head you towards a rehearsal band or sling you the odd bit of work if they think you are good enough. A Big Band often gives you exposure to like minded people. Look for workshops or clinics where you get a chance to build experience and perform. There are often people at these that can lead to contacts. Whatever you do, do not play for crap money. It is better not to be paid than to get a reputation for working cheaply. I played for nothing for a fair while. When I did get paid it was a fair figure. Friends of mine who worked cheaply found it impossible to get out of the rut. Obviously, you must have the goods to back it up. Say yes to anything you can handle and say no to anything you know you can't. One bad gig takes a long time for some people to forget. THIS IS ONLY MY OPINION SO THINK THROUGH YOUR CHOICES.