Sight Reading and Mistakes

Some gigs go better than others. That just seems to happen from time-to-time. When sight reading music, things can really get funny quickly when the charts are difficult (especially without a rehearsal), and/or when the musicianship in the band is not at the level you would like it to be. When there are hand written notes/instructions accompanying the charts, then it can get even more stressful. It’s been my experience that when sight-reading and something doesn’t go right, I really need to listen and also lead at the same time. This is interesting because I’m listening trying to hear what went wrong (and adjust), and at the same time trying to lead the band into the next section. Many bands that I play with do not have a conductor, so it really is up to me to take on that role during moments of doubt. Eye contact and simply counting off (out loud) the upcoming section can be helpful for the band. Once a mistake has been made, it’s in the past and I don’t go over and over it. My goal is to keep playing music and keep enjoying the moment. Train wrecks aren’t any fun, but they can pass quickly if I let them pass.