[TPIN] How to be a lead player

[Mike Vax]

It is interesting to me that Mr. Boozo started this whole thing with a
pretty negative statement.  I guess, as sometimes in the past, he likes to
use negativity to get a discussion going.  Not sure why?  Lew Soloff is a
great jazz player and a great lead player, as was Bill Chase.  Since we
don't know Mr. Boozo's real name, we don't know just how well he plays
anything.
But in this case it worked pretty well and there has been a good discussion.
To answer John Kool's questions from my perspective.
I listen for sound, stylistic approach, time, ability to swing, and how well
the section is following the "lead" of the lead player.
Most times - on a recording session, you are mainly playing the style of
that band first, and then maybe adding a few nuances from previous bands, as
might be needed.  Example - if we were recording a Sammy Nestico chart with
my band, we would first try to sound and phrase the way we do with all
charts and then add a little of the "Basie" influence for his chart.
On a live job it really depends on if you are playing on a "society band"
that is trying to sound like the original recordings, or playing on a
"current" band that has its own style.  When I am on a job for another
leader, I always try to phrase and articulate the way that leader wants the
music to sound. That is one of my main jobs as a lead player.  If I do it
with conviction and good time, then even on a "sight reading" dance job, the
section will follow me and the whole band will phrase that way on ensemble
passages.
I hope this gives you my perspective on your question, John.
Mike Vax

On Sat, Mar 1, 2008 at 2:34 AM, John Kool <johnkool at windstream.net> wrote:

> A wonderful list, Mr. Hession.
> Thank you!
>
> Next question  for you and the entire list to comment on:
>
> What do you listen for in these players to determine how to become a
> lead player?
>
> And, are great lead players consistent on a session with one style
> (which is often what we hear on one album),
>
> or, on a live job, where you might have Basie, Ellington, Lombardo,
> Kenton, Ray Anthony, Dorsey, Miller, (i.e. wide variety in one night)
> does the lead player change style to fit the music or change the music
> to fit the style of the band he is performing with)
>
> If he changes style to fit the period or music, how does he affect
> that leadership in the section?
> Either in rehearsal, or if a pick-up job...on demand on the bandstand?
>
> Not sure I am being articulate in my question asking, but see if you
> can figure out the gist of my intent.
>
> On Mar 1, 2008, at 4:02 AM, Hession, Patrick E. wrote:
>
> > LEAD TRUMPET PLAYERS
> >
> <extensive list snipped as a courtesy>
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