I've seen several different approaches to what to do on stage when not playing; I'm not too fond of the wander about like you're disconnected in those moments from what everyone else is doing.
Are there harp players that have a great stage presence even when not playing? Could you name some or post clips?
My background is busking in the street with one other guy; it never was an issue. But I'm interested in doing more with a band on a stage.
Is this an odd question?
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I think if your up for some type of dancing around that's a good idea. I think if the audience sees you rocking out and having a good time on stage they will also have a good time. Maybe get a wireless rig and go out dancing with the audience, I think Catfish does this.
Perhaps consider other accompaniment, like perhaps tambourine. Maybe consider stage theatrics... could be funny or exciting stuff.
Interesting question, it does matter, a lot. My short answer is if the band swings much of the presence is accomplished. Look like it's fun, which ain't hard if it is. The rest takes care of itself. My mental list of great bands didn't really generate standout examples and I think it's because they groove and the audience just goes too. The brief queues and expressions between players tell the room what's going on and they respond. If people are really into a band they REALLY do key in on band interactions during and between songs. Carefully plan set up because it determines efficiency of movement. I don't like set lists. The number one rule is make the women happy. There are no other rules.
Last Edited by Littoral on May 17, 2015 10:43 AM
First , make sure you have rehearsed with the band enough so that you know exactly what to do on each tune once you hit the stage. Don't raise the harmonica to your mouth unless you're actually going to play . Too many times I have seen harmonica players, good and otherwise, continually raise the harp and then lower it again with out playing a note, looking unsure and as though they were looking for a place to play some notes. Look like you are in the band. ---------- Ted Burke __________________ ted-burke.com tburke4@san.rr.com
a lot of it depends on whether or not you are the front man or not.
i like when a harp player dances around and at least sways or grooves with the music.
however,i have seen people overdo it too.
you don't want to detract attention from the main focus.
for example,a friend of mine used to dance around in front of the singer while they were singing and jump off of bar stools during other people's solos.
so,i think you want to dance and have some antics,but not at the risk of taking away from someone's own performance.
although,there's a time for that too. ---------- www.shakeylee.com
Don't forget to pay homage to your audience in APPRECIATION FOR THE OPPORTUNITY.. and continually seek people's eye...... PS..... I like what Ted said re raising/lowering harp in 'expectation'....
Are you The front man? If so watch other front men it doesn't matter what instrument they play. If not Watch other side men it doesn't matter what instrument they play. Watch Willy's harp guy.
Sometimes I used to take a book and a deckchair, one time we had a chessboard, and the keys player and I conducted a game throughout the show. In the background of the mayhem. The idea was to be actively engaged in another activity unrelated to the band, and have to interrupt it for a solo or to play a horn part in a particular part. It was quite difficult really. Very hard to concentrate on not being involved while paying careful attention. One time I stripped during a song I had no playing role in. I made sure I had devised a line for next time.
