[TPIN] Difficult Band Member - lead playing and responsibilities

[Patrick Olguin]

Interesting conversation.  I like Mike's comments about lead playing.  I'm
fortunate that the players in the band I lead, and the people in other bands I
play in *get* that concept.  Personally, I love the musical challenge of
playing follow-the-leader and making the lead player sound that much better by
reinforcing his/her interpretation.  I consider it a great compliment when a
guest conductor can't figure out who's playing lead - we try to blend/support
that well. This goes right down to the smallest detail, like matching the
interval/frequency of shakes.  

In the big band I lead, it is clearly understood that anyone can make any
suggestion to *me*, and that section leads are welcome to make comments to
their own sections.  But the kind of cross-talk described by the OP would get
you kicked out of my band in a hurry, regardless of talent.

Being a good player may get you a gig, but being a good team member will ensure
you KEEP that gig.  When given the choice to have a great player who's
otherwise a retard on a gig, and a good player who's a dream to work with...
the latter player always gets a call from me.  Life's too short for the other
stuff.  If your bandleader can't see what's going on, and isn't taking care of
it, then he's doing you all a disservice.

Regards,
Patrick Olguin - friendly Benge player, and occasional curmudgeon when required.