Orchestra

[dougal]

So after six months of lessons & practice on the upright, I've finally got my first orchestral rehearsal - only about 17 years since the last one.

A touch apprehensive, need so soothing advice to calm my nerves.

So far I've got:
* Find out what movements we're going to play & listen to them so there are no suprises.
* Bring a music stand.
* Don't eat beans before hand.
* Don't turn up drunk.

Anyone else got solid advice? I'm sure it'll be fine (starts repeating as mantra in attempt to believe it).

[velvetkevorkian]

And listening to Suffocation to get in the mood?

-Take a stool if you can
-Take a pencil! Even better, take two.
-A doughnut or something to stop your spike slipping.
-If you're playing as part of a section, just remember that the principal is meant to be blamed for any mistakes. If you're the only one, or playing principal, just remember no one really listens to the basses anyway

Do you know what pieces you're playing yet?
Let us know how you get on anyway.

[Bilbo]

Don't forget your bass or your bow!

[geilerbass]

Don't tap your foot to keep in time! Might seem obvious, but it's something I do naturally and was always getting called up for it when I used to play in orchestras. Apparently, the sound of it carries.

[Owen]

Remember to experiment with quarter tones on long held notes, it sets the whole orchestra out of tune and is quite difficult to track down. Also organise the section to get faster or slower if you have any repeated pizz sections. Again this drives everyone but is quite difficult to spot if done well. Happy days

[dougal]

So Ian (bass teacher) came up with the following:

* Watch the cellos.
* Bring a pencil.
* Position yourself so your stand is between you & the conductor.
* Don't try & play everything if it gets tough.
* Hope there's another bassist there who's better than you are.

Wish me luck.