Talents – Add to My List…

Stage talents: Drive,  ambition, proper attitude,  proper appearance,  dress  properly for the occasion or venue, dress for the audience, make the best of the looks God gave you, smile no matter what,  be professional, focus and pay attention to what is going on, listen attentively to  both musical and non-musical happenings, proper language, no swearing or derogatory remarks, look as if you like what you are doing and are happy to be there, no smoking or  alcohol on stage, know your P.A. system thoroughly, carry a spare mic, cables, mic batteries.  Have your own equipment and P.A. if necessary. Don’t count on someone else to provide you with a decent P.A.

Non stage talents:  No drugs, try to quit smoking, go easy on  the alcohol,  get proper food and rest,  have your own transportation, your own money with you and on you , don’t borrow,  be careful lending,  practice regularly, keep in shape,  work hard at  your craft,  keep up with current material  and equipment, don’t leave things to chance.   Keep an eye on your belongings, money and equipment due to theft. Be a schooled musician if you can. Gain  respect of the others, Be fair,  Make an effort to get along with others. Try  to defuse conflicts or arguments rather than pouring gasoline on the fire.  STD’s are rampant – avoid them. Don’t take VD home to  your partner, Be able to make repairs to your equipment, Carry at least  basic toolkit, soldering gun etc. Give your wife/ partner  proper time,  respect  and love. We musicians tend to fall in love with our music. Don’t hustle the girl  the band. Stand your ground professionally, Don’t gang up on the newest, weakest or  youngest member of the band. Don’t quit school to join a band. Be careful of joint purchase of equipment. Have a pre-arranged agreement as to what happens  with equipment when the band breaks up.

Acting skills for emitting emotion, but also knowing when to be real, and never insincere. Being thankful for opportunities, being objective about talent (theirs and others), always striving to improve, being able to “flip the switch” and perform even if conditions aren’t perfect. Fearless (butterflies are normal, thinking that you can only sing in front of people if you’re “perfect” is unhealthy). Acting professional whether you are performing for two people or two thousand people. Doing your homework! And knowing what your values are and sticking up for yourself when necessary. Not being afraid to walk away.
PS. “Organ”…I can tell you are a “road warrior.” Amen to all you said. :)