For most of us, the need to play in an ensemble is obvious. During our musical development, we all participated in ensembles, sometimes voluntarily and sometimes because of departmental requirements. Whether in a marching band, a jazz ensemble or a brass quintet, we all had experiences in this area. To most of us, the requirements to participate in a marching band had more to do with entertaining the wealthy alumni than it had to do with a beneficial musical experience. I have to admit, I never cared care for my marching band experience. Playing in chamber ensembles, jazz bands and orchestras on the other hand brought back fond memories and friendships. The value of such participations was of great value to our earlier musical development but after graduate, our ensemble experiences began to change. Some players continued into a playing career and continued the interaction with fellow ensemble members such as shows, dance bands, university faculty ensembles. Some entered the service and ensemble plying continued. Unfortunately for many, their careers did not include an extension of ensemble playing and for those who fell into this group, I address this posting.
Can you continue to develop as a musician without performing in ensembles?
Many musicians have adjusted to the non-ensemble way of life and are perfectly happy. Their contact with their instrument can be an every day occurrence or it might be weeks between contact with their horn. Each individual fills their musical needs in different ways. For the musician who wishes to only “play for the fun of it”, with no desire to improve, life can be very satisfying, but for the musician who wants to constantly improve in his/her art, the lack of contact with other musicians can be very frustrating.
What are the benefits of playing in an ensemble?
Individual practicing can be beneficial but there are issues which only ensemble playing can address. Beyond just “keeping your chops in shape” individual practice does not address these issues-
1. Ensemble playing requires you to be aware of intonation issues in your own playing.
2. Performing in ensembles will push you beyond your normal comfort zone.
3. Ensembles will help widen your musical styles and knowledge.
4. Ensembles will make you more conscious of your weaknesses as a musician.
5. As a member of an ensemble, you will be required to perfect your musicianship to a higher level than if you only played at home for yourself.
6. Members of an ensemble will be more aware of differences in musical interpretations.
7. Ensembles will dictate rehearsal times which might not line up to your wishes for playing Payday Loan.
8. As a member of an ensemble, you will be expected to perform even if you don’t feel like it.
9. Members of an ensemble will be expected to play their very best at all times.
10. Each ensemble member will be faced with additional nerve pressures which you normally would not have if you were home practicing by yourself.
How can I get started playing in an ensemble again?
Check out the following in your area-
- City Bands- Many cities already have bands functioning and are always interested in adding qualified musicians, even if it would only be a substitute position.
- Organizational/ Company bands- Check with the largest employer in your area. Sometimes they have employees who have like interests and forming an ensemble can be easier than you might think.
- High School Bands- Most often these groups only function during the summer months but even that could be beneficial.
- Local brass ensembles- If one has not been form in your area, try starting one.
- Church Ensemble- Churches are always using brass groups for Easter and other special occasions. If you have played with other musicians on such occasions, get their names and form your group from this ensemble.
- Park and Recreation Department- Many P&RD’s can be open to suggestions for forming a summer park band series. If you don’t feel comfortable doing all the organizational work yourself, contact your local high school director and offer to help him/her form a group. Sometimes a brass quintet would be just the right ensemble to get the program started.
No thanks, I’m happy just playing my horn at home.
If you are not interested in forming or helping to form an ensemble, I have another suggestion. Form your own ensemble of “one”. Many of the benefits I have listed above can also be fulfilled by recording yourself and playing with the recording to form a duet.
“A DUET IS AN ENSEMBLE EVEN IF YOU ARE PLAYING BOTH PARTS”.
The advancements in digital recording devices have made it possible for an individual to record themselves and start playing duets with themselves. I have begun a large project very similar to this concept which I hope to have available by next month. People have asked me how to develop more endurance and increase their upper range and because of this interest I will have available a method which would be of great value to anyone practicing alone. The benefits of this system have been tremendous and I’m excited to have it out very soon. Stop back often and I will do a feature on this beneficial system in the near future.
You know as a female brass player, I love the photo:-) I also really appreciate the blog. I like how you cover the psychology of playing, BLOG ON! DUDE!
You are too kind, but I will overlook that problem.
The best to you and yours from Branson.
What a useful blog….I cannot agree more and it brings back some wonderful memories of my music education…which started about 60 years ago….
I had a wonderful music education…so packed with opportunity. Orchestra and Wind Band to play and perform with every day at Pontypridd Grammar School. That’s in Wales, UK in the coalmining district of the Rhondda Valley. Brass Bands to rehearse with three nights a week.The Glamorgan Youth Orchestra met each school holiday for residential courses; similarly the National Youth Orchestra of Wales each summer. I played the notes but equally importantly learnt the etiquette of orchestral/ ensemble playing. Playing in the pit orchestras for the high quality amateur operatic societies dotted throughout the Rhondda…and other valleys!
Gigging….sixteen piece Top Rank bands, full orchestras for choral societies, dance bands, cabaret…playing for a generation that did a Strictly Come Dancing every week for pure pleasure.
The gigging went on whatever else musically I was involved with…. classical to jazz…. even…episodes of progressive rock…on keyboard! Lots of work in Theatre.
Then along came (35 years ago) music technology and it has developed and developed and developed. Creating virtual performances, recording, inset for teachers.
Sadly witnessed the demise of state music education system…I don’t blame the teachers. The opportunity that my generation had is no longer there; opportunity for all regardless of the amount of money parents could afford.
Now I’m trying combine my ‘traditional’ music making background with my music technology experience by developing the way in which 21st century music technology can help and motivate instrumental and vocal practice.
Here are some inks to the results of my work so far.
You Tube Demos:
The Arban Cornet Study No. 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HadGjz5K93E
Carnival of Venice – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjEtVWDXawE
Gabrielli Conzona No. 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8-ILoLvYqI
Webpractice in the Classroom – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0vk_l2lBZ4
To our Apps in App Store:
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/jazz-trumpet-level-1-dlp-bits/id860204058?mt=8
To our Blog:
http://etoapps.wordpress.com/2014/04/11/new-jazz-app-published-next-week/
Absolutely stunning!
I would like to thank you for the history of your background and I will visit your site this evening. At first glance, I am very much impressed with your material and will need a few days to “get a handle” on everything you have to offer.
I will get back to you with some questions..
Stay well and live long my friend.