How can i land a gig with a band? - what does it take?

[ralph]

Joe Collado(see photo below) is a very good friend of mine also and took a couple of lessons with me also many years ago as well as Edwin....I was in a few bands in Miami and Edwin and I sometimes playd together but i met him when he first came from Chicago and long time ago...he is really "very serious" about his playing which i always respected and a very good all round player...When I knew him he was a bit young and sometimes very impatient with others/musicians...i think he was 19 or 20 when i met him...is he still in Miami?....he called me not too long ago and was planning on moving out....if u see or hear from him tell him i said "Hi"....."JC" Johnny Conga........Photo-.from topR toL-Danny Diaz-Archie Pena- ME
Joe Collado "Cookie" Lopez.....

Wow...i know the guy on the top left looked familiar, thats, Danny is in Winston Salem, NC now, working with his own band Oseiku's Total Eclipse...I have to get back in contact with him, and hang...thanks JC...

[caballoballo]

Hanging with other musicians sometimes is difficult,most of them don't know how to dance and they tend to concentrate around the stage to look at the playing band and to critique, if I am not giging that is what I do, go out to dance. Like I said before if salsa is what you want to play,dancing in clave will help you understant tempo & rhytm like Eddie Torres the mambo King said. Listen very carefully how the Conga march,Timbal cascara,bongo martillo interact with the clave then listen in the montuno how the campanas (timbal and Bongo bell ) & the Conga also work in sync, clave is there too.
Then look at the dancers footwork and you'll see the clave there. Sound complicated but is not.



Edited By caballoballo on 1187107089

[JohnnyConga]

Hi Ralph ...yea me and Danny go waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back.....Im glad to see him still playing and doing his thing...he's another GREAT unknown player......actually he has a video interview he did with me in Miami some years ago...u know how I can get in touch with him?...I lost all contact..when he left Miami and I left also...Tks ..."JC" Johnny Conga.....

[m_three10]

Wow…

I Honestly can truly say for the first time that I am overwhelmed by the vital, honest, and hard earned information being passed on to me right now. Coming to this forum not really sure what I'm to expect- probably teenagers who play bongos for a hobby and whatnot, nothing too serious, maybe a few replies here and there- But your stories and your posts are really helping me see things in a new light. Things like my future in music…

Since were all sharing stories and really 'letting it out' I will in turn let some things out and thoughts myself, while reflecting on the past few posts from 'caballoballo' 'raymond' and 'blango' 'JC'….

Im 21 years old, In all my life I have somewhat been surrounded by this music which I am now in my late teens early 20's am beginning to understand. I grew up in church where bobby and nikki cruz would play their salsa, and the guys that followed… well I followed them (I was 3-4 years old). I always had my bongos and I was always banging on something.

When I began elementary school I picked up the clarinet. I still don’t know to this day why I picked it up, but it did, and it didn’t last especially when my teacher Mr. Alan Wolfe (love the man now) instilled the wrath of Satan upon his classes, and really turned me off to music… Fast forward to when I'm 18 (Music was dead in me for all that time), I decide to pick up the guitar and see 'whats up' with it. I notice I am progressing and I like the feeling of the progression, but without a teacher, I felt directionless.

Not until the day I found someone better than myself. And that was a friend who I had gone to highschool with and had been playing since he was about 12. It really opened me up to music, watching this kid sweat out his blues and play verbatim to santana… (don’t believe me? Check my site where he plays on www.purevolume.com/gabemendoza, where the track is called Quadd Journey…)
It was some epic ****, to really hear the guitar being played in such a way that was pure emotion, pure soul, pure groove. In those times of being an obligatory student and rhythm player (since he would solo ALL DAY) I learned a lot about myself and music. Ever since then I've been hungry for it. Hungry for knowledge, and commited to the path.

So being "me", the type of person who has to be doing a lot of things at the same time to 'keep it fresh' (I know it can be bad sometimes), I decided I wanted to give the instrument that I have always somehow had a hand on since I was a kid a chance. That being the congas.

When I saw Joe Collado play that day, and Edwin torres on the timbale, and Louis Vergara on Bass… they made this music just move, they made it work and flow. It was a real beautiful thing, and it was great that It was played for high school kids though I don’t really think they appreciated it as such, a few just danced.

But when I had the opportunity to take lessons - while still practicing on guitar, and studying theory in school, and focusing my hardest on music, on knowledge, on my goal - I did, and it opened up a new world of sound and intimacy with an insturment.
Being able to beat on this drum (tumbadoras), while being the master of 'time' and just slapping my hands around in ways they never really moved before, and achieving these tones which can only be unlocked in such precise ways… I just fell in love with it in no way that any other instrument has made me feel...

So I took some lessons, learned the fundamentals, and began to watch videos and take physical notes of what was going down, began to learn some history about it, began to seek conga music and danzon music and such… everything I could possibly get my hands on to propel myself further. And that’s when it occurred to me that I really don’t know where to take my next step. Where does it go from there? One studies and learns all these things, begins lessons… but where next?

And that’s what you guys are helping me with. I Think the most important information I took from all the posts right now was to 'get out' and meet people and play, play, listen, play. And I am, Im finding as many open mic spots in miami as I can, theres one for Monday, one for Tuesday, blues on Wednesday, blues on Thursday, and the weekends are :\ (except for drum circles)

Though I don’t agree with many of the places here in miami to play with, In terms of the people… and not to much the music. Because we all know musicians can get along, its just the 'people' (in them) that ruin it with their ego, and showmanship and lack of respect for anyone but themselves…. And of course I'll go further to say that yes, 'that’s the real world (though I hope it isn't the case in the bands you all play with)…

And that’s where I stand right now really. Theres a lot more work I need to put in now, im learning I need to put more time into my clave understanding, while being patient and really opening my ears as best I can.

I don’t want to come off as some 'try hard' or some kid with a nice story or anything like that, im just being real. As real as everyone has been with me in helping me create a better understanding of where I need to set my sights right now.

One more question that came to mind, this is for everyone here…

*If you were to change one thing about the way you began your journey in drumming, what would it be and why? It could be the work ethic, teachers, location, anything that you perhaps wished you did differently?

-and im not saying regret, because I don’t believe in living about regretting things. But just 'different'.


Thank you all for your kindness and support.

[m_three10]

uh, sorry for the insanely long post... i typed it in word, and type kind of fast....


should be a good read i think :;):



Edited By m_three10 on 1187118259

[Raymond]

m_three_10,

There is no clear answer. (Sorry but is the truth!). Every generation has their own type of experience that perhaps will not fit yours. What you have to do is identify the "general ones" and follow them and do things the way you feel comfortable and that will let you achieve what you want.

The salsa scene everywhere is not what it used to be. Is not as popular as it used to be and things are tough all over. Now you have people from all over trying it but is harder because there are not as many venues. Psychology works here. Not everybody is willing to help, you could meet people who are competitive and might not help you, people who will help you only because they think you lack experience, and some who will turn away from you as soon as you become good and might be a threat to them. Is not an easy atmosphere. If you ask me, that is the tough part of my experience.

Miami? You are in a tough area but still not as bad. My best recommendation is to get close to somebody who will truly be helpful and let you in the experiencies and you have to be proactive to be there. Get a "mentor", not a teacher only, but a mentor or good friend. Somebody who will let you in what is going on and that you could learn from their experiences and who knows...that person might let you in some gigs he might not want to do or think they are more for you. (That has been a formula that has worked for me).

Again, there is no real answer here but grasp as much as you can and try to be exposed to as much as you can. There is no formula.

You have the right age....Is never too late anyway...Go for it...!

Saludos!

[Charangaman]

Greetings m_three10 ,


If I could change anything about my journey in drumming it would be to have learned earlier, harder and faster but as you say yourself, regrets are futile...

In regards to your original questions, I beleive having your own "swing" is a significant factor, also being versatile enough to fit in any given musical situation even if it's not really your bag helps you get some live experience...



Best wishes on you journey

[Garvin]

Good point charangaman. I would agree. Maybe don't shoot for Salsa gigs right out of the gate. Get some performing experience under your belt with a contemporary band that needs a percussionist. I've played R&B gigs and just really concentrated on my technique by playing montuno all night and of course laying out when necessary. My guess is if you open up to other genres, you'll get hired faster and then already be out on the scene when the dream gig has an opening.

[CongaTick]

Garvin's dead on, as is charanga,

I've been on the "contemporary" bar circuit for a few years, and have never hit a salsa situation cause there ain't much happenin where I am. . But it gives me a chance to perform, sharpen my chops and get known. Versatility is a real tool. If you can percuss on covers and other R&B/pop/funk/soul/blues/etc. you may have more value initially than trying to break into a Latin-based clique atmosphere.

[JohnnyConga]

I "pride" myself of being a "specialist" in "styles"....from Rock to Pop to Soul to Funk to Salsa to Jazz to African to Brasilian.and more...and thats how I have been in 147 bands to date.....one of my "grasshoppers" called me from DC yesterday and told me he is now playing percussion in his first American Folk/Jazz band and is digging it and touring to NYC and other places...he told me he never thought of playing outside of Salsa until this opportunity came up...and he also felt freer also to play what ever he wanted to play to the music...and not be locked into one 'style" of music....in other words , though your love may be in Latin music, the world dictates what music makes the most money...and the 2 right now are Christian music and Country....and their making BIG BUCKS....and now u can even see a percussionist in a Country band ...who knew?.....I have even done country myself.....if your a musician it's a job of another kind, that's all..u don't have to like it(of course it helps if u do), but it pays too....today you can go many ways, trust me Miami is NOT the answer....unless something dramatic has changed since i left 6 years ago....paz...."JC" Johnny Conga...

[m_three10]

I "pride" myself of being a "specialist" in "styles"....from Rock to Pop to Soul to Funk to Salsa to Jazz to African to Brasilian.and more...and thats how I have been in 147 bands to date.....one of my "grasshoppers" called me from DC yesterday and told me he is now playing percussion in his first American Folk/Jazz band and is digging it and touring to NYC and other places...he told me he never thought of playing outside of Salsa until this opportunity came up...and he also felt freer also to play what ever he wanted to play to the music...and not be locked into one 'style" of music....in other words , though your love may be in Latin music, the world dictates what music makes the most money...and the 2 right now are Christian music and Country....and their making BIG BUCKS....and now u can even see a percussionist in a Country band ...who knew?.....I have even done country myself.....if your a musician it's a job of another kind, that's all..u don't have to like it(of course it helps if u do), but it pays too....today you can go many ways, trust me Miami is NOT the answer....unless something dramatic has changed since i left 6 years ago....paz...."JC" Johnny Conga...

Its great that you guys all mentioned about keeping my musical options options openan not closing myself to latin music... but its been like that since so long, i find myself playing with a blues/ska band right now (lead guitar) but my passion is to write a sort of jazz fusion mixed with latin.

Latin music and salsa is just a new chapter i want to write in my book (but you guys are scaring me as to whether i want to try it :;): j/k). But jazz percussion is one thing i want to get into as well. I go to church, and ive been wanting to add a percussive element to their music and will be getting on that next week... and i would love to have a cool R&B gig where i can jam and play some chill music.

So like you all said, really keep the doors open... but i dont see that as being a problem for myself as i get bored with things pretty easy and i like to keep it fresh.


As for a mentor, i must say i have never had a more enlightening and positive conversation like i did with a man by the name of Freddy Lugo. JC gave me his number and the man and i spoke for an hour and a half... literally, just about music and everything it entails. I am going to be meeting with him this sunday for my first lesson, but i really feel like its a great step foward and will allow me learn things and take things from people who have taught him and have taught them and just concepts and knowledge thats virtually timeless.



Edited By m_three10 on 1187212402

[Congadelica]

So like you all said, really keep the doors open... but i dont see that as being a problem for myself as i get bored with things pretty easy and i like to keep it fresh.


This Answers your first quetion ,sound like your on the path allready m_three10.

Good that you get to meet our main man "JC" Im sure you will learn heaps .

Great thread we have hear too :p

Good luck with your quest mi amigo

marco

[m_three10]

thanks marco.


i really appreciate all the wonderful advice here, i hope others read this thread as well and can learn a thing or two...

this is seriously the best thing ive done for myself this week

I have two more questions... (since thats all ive been doing here...)


1. If theres one music that remains sort of mysterious to me, much like classical music... its gotta be salsa. If you were to describe what was going on in salsa music, or the role of the players in a salsa band... what would they be?

2.*What would be the one piece of advice you'd like to leave with a young grasshopper like myself if god forbid it was your time to 'go'...?
i dunno, maybe someone has never asked you that... but i am, and would sincerely like to know.


Gabe



Edited By m_three10 on 1187215338

[pavloconga]

Greetings all,
I've only just read your initial post and all the great responses from so many congaboard people.
You ask some really good questions about what it takes to get a salsa gig. I may be repeating what some people have said already, but I think some things need to be emphasised, so here's my 2 congas worth:

• You really have to study the music and practice a lot. Contrary to many people's perceptions, conga playing is as deep and as challenging as any other instrument and you have to train your body, your muscles and your mind to play. You might be an exception, but it usually takes many years of practice and much knowledge to be considered for the gig.

• Find yourself good teachers/mentors. Someone who is going to make you work hard and push you to new levels. You need to really immerse yourself in this pursuit.

• Develop your technique to a high level.

• Learn how each of the percussion parts (conga, timb. bongo) interact with each other as well as the bass and the other instruments.

• At the same time, play in other music situations, jazz, funk or whatever. It's a good way of developing and finding your feet.

• Learn some African percussion too, it will give you a different perspective and more rhythmic knowledge to draw on.

• See this as a long term goal (5 years+)
Being only 20 or so is in your favour and being Cuban probably helps because you have likely been exposed to the music a lot.

• As others have said, be open to exploring different musical styles.
As an example, someone asked me recently to fill in for their usual percussionist in a 10 piece George Harrison (The Beatles) Tribute band for a big show. I'd never really been into the music, but after 2 rehearsals it was such a buzz just to play my part in the music and I realised what great music it was. I can say that I enjoyed that gig almost as much as playing in a salsa band.

Have you thought of starting your own band? At least you'll know you can play congas!

ciao
Pavlo



Edited By pavloconga on 1187224217

[m_three10]

After reading pavlo's post, it made me notice how having a great teacher is really essential. I had an instructor for guitar and notice progress, but when i stopped, things were still rolling... but i dont think as they would had i been guided.


Would you say this could be the result of not having a mentor? and rather when trying to 'do it on my own' im cutting myself short of an experienced director...


what role has a teacher played in your paths?