Presid ent ’s Toolkit:
Ask Simon … BY SIMON MINSHALL
A couple of months ago, Martin, our fantastic social media manager, asked you enthusiastic lot to suggest subjects you’d like me to delve into. Here are the first you asked for:
How Do You Approach Sight Reading? Any Tips? This comes up a lot. Due to the versatility of the trombone, we often find ourselves performing in many different genres, with a vast array of music that we are expected to read at sight. UK musicians have always been highly respected for their ability to play to the red light and get it right first time. I enjoy the challenge of practising sight-reading, and I do it by simply getting some new music and playing it. We all have study books that we play the same numbers from … find a new one. Before playing, take time to look. I have a little check list: clef, key, speed/time signature, geography. There is nothing worse than successfully playing each note (in the right order) and then getting thrown by a 1st time bar or a D.S./Coda.
How do you keep going without stopping if something goes wrong, especially at home where you can ‘get away with it’? Well simply, don’t let yourself get away with it; even if you make mistakes train yourself to keep going, you are practising a specific skill. Use a metronome (this prepares you for playing to a click track), and a recording device (your smart phone maybe?). Experiment with playing at different tempi. The recording device is there to give you some feedback on your playing.
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Playing in ensembles with people who share the same mentality really does help; maybe bring a new piece to every rehearsal none of you have seen. Don’t be afraid to use a pencil before you make the mistake! That one thoughtful moment can really make your life a bit easier. It has for me!
What Makes an Employable Freelancer? A few years ago, I was asked to write 10 points on this kind of subject, and they apply to all of us: amateur to seasoned professional. They are by no means gospel, and you will have some other points I am sure:
1. Always be early – never on time. 2.
Adapt to your surroundings, playing and other musicians’ personalities. Still be yourself but your job is to make others sound better.
3. Always buy your round – pub or coffee. 4.
Always be in good shape – take care to look after your basics – especially on free days or mornings/when work is slow.
