by Raymond » Mon Oct 06, 2003 3:23 pm
Although I do not live in the US, how "easy" or difficult it will depend on the musical genre you want to get. (I did live once in the Orlando area and did play in some latin bands).
Based on what you are saying about yourself, the most difficult genres in your case will be the "tropical/latin jazz" genres. Just like is mentioned before by 120 decibels, depending on your city, the scene or scenes could be very small and tough to break into because of a few dependable players with good connections might get most gigs, and the the "stereotypes" of the genre. Last but not least your command of the latin genres has to be very good to play with latin bands. In regards to the "stereotypes", sorry to say but is difficult to break in as a percussionist of a latin bands when you are not latino. You see, in latin bands most likely you will play only congas during the entire gig and the playing is very demanding on you since the conga is the rhythm foundation of latin genres like salsa and merengue. It is wrongly believe that if you are not latino there is no way you could play salsa or merengue tumbaos with "command." For your information, for the non initiated, playing a salsa gig in congas will kill you.
If you want to get into the other non latin genres, and you want to better your chances of playing and to call yourself a "complete percussionist", you need to dominate basics "tumbaos" or rhythm patterns of the congas. In most non latin genres if you are the percussionists, the congas will be probably you most used instrument. Therefore, the investment on the congas might not pay off immediately but will eventually if you keep it up! If not, is good therapy for you!
In regards to "free jamming", they are available everywhere. Is just you "connecting" with the right people! Personally, I recommend, once you dominate the instrument or its basics, to get into some of those "free jammings." You will not believe how much you will learn by watching, listening and hanging around people that dominate the instrument. Be careful though, see first what is expected on those who jams before you dare to participate to see if you are up to what they are expecting.
Another important thing about playing an instrument is to befriend "your competition." Referral is very important in playing. Having a friend who can recommend you or give you a chance in a gig he/she cannot do is great opportunity to break in a scene!.
Keep us informed on what you decide....
Edited By Raymond on Oct. 06 2003 at 16:41