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Improving an "iffy" band

To: Brass Band Mailing List <brass-band@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Improving an "iffy" band
From: Donna Lafferty <donna_lafferty@xxxxxxxxx>
Date: Sun, 26 Dec 1999 10:39:36 -0800 (PST)
Priority: low
Reply-to: brass-band@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hi list. Happy new year.

Something that's been on my mind lately, and on which
I would appreciate some input, is how to improve an
"iffy" band.

We have some solid players (about 25% of each
section). Those folks are dedicated, practice, take
private lessons, show up for all rehearsals, etc. No
problem there. Then there's the 50% that show up most
of the time but never get truly competent on their
parts. The last 25% always have some "plausible"
excuse (sticking valves, conflict with son's football
game...) for why they don't show up consistently or
work to improve their playing.

I guess we could remove the last 25%, but for two
things: #1) we have an open-door policy, and #2) they
are actually nice people with whom we enjoy spending
time.

So, what do more experienced bands do to encourage
individual players? I'm not expecting to transform
these folks into virtuosi, but it's frustrating to
think that the band as a whole is being held back by
these individuals.

Also, is it my imagination, or do cornets have trouble
playing in tune and quietly? Any suggestions on fixing
this particular problem?

Thanks.

=====
Donna M. Lafferty
1st Trombone
Bloomington Brass Band
Bloomington, Indiana USA
donna_lafferty@xxxxxxxxx


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