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WayneConrad |
I've had precious little practice in the last week. I wish I could post some cool practice notes for you, but it's mostly been work, and a little bit of practicing for the folk festival.
The band met at an open mic. last Wednesday, one I've never been to, to perform a short set (4 songs). We got a short time to practice outside before the set. I was pleased that my banjo wasn't mic'd. I don't know if that was an oversight, or the band leader whispered a word to the sound guy, but it was for the best because I wasn't ready for it. I made sure to look like I was having fun, dance around a little, smile some. If I can't do a good job musically, at least add to the show visually. I muddled through three tunes, but then played Cripple Creek well (I know it already). For that one, I wish I'd have had a mic.
I had no stage fright at all. I've been worried that my increasing ease with performing was just because I've gotten comfortable with Fiddler's Dream, where I usually play, and that performing anywhere else would make me afraid all over again. But I was completely at ease.
During my Thursday lesson, my instructor remembered that the band leader sometimes performs Wildwood Flower, so we toyed around with that in double-D. That's a nice tuning for it. I usually go to an open stage after my lesson on Thursday, but I skipped it because it was such a busy week.
When I do get any practice in, it's mostly been Cotton Eyed Joe, one of the songs the band will be playing. It's a cut-time tune with just one chord. It's fun to improvise and mess around with because I don't have to worry about what chord is coming next. I think I'll do alright with that song. I might even manage a break. I'm trying different ways to play it to keep it interesting.
Work has been a monster. I haven't been getting my morning practices, and after work I'm too wiped out to want to play. I got some practice in just now because I woke up with an acid stomach. Take some antacids, go in the garage and practice, head back to bed.
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