[TPIN] How to be a lead player

[Byron Jones]

As a lead player (sometimes) and a section player (most of the time), when I 
play jazz in a big band section, two qualities come to my mind. Does the 
lead player play phrases consistently, or does he (or she) play them 
differently each time. That would be hard to follow, and would be a bad 
trait, in my opinion.
Also, does the lead player listen to the other section mates and offer 
criticisms during the rehearsals to players who aren't following, or are 
consistently making the same mistakes over and over.
It is not only the talent of the lead player and his (or her) ability to 
swing and play stylistically, but the ability to listen to the section and 
point out constructive ways for the section to "tighten-up".
After this fine tuning, if you have the luxury of rehearsal, then the lead 
player can expect the whole section to swing, and play the style, etc.
Some times, the lead player needs to add to the criticism of the entire 
band's rehearsal points by bringing up things that the rehearsal director 
misses.
So that "ear" and art of listening is crucial.
Byron