Keeping your hands in shape when you're busy gigging should be a priority (with rest being equally important as well). Let's face it; sometimes we are going to be doing gigs that we are over- qualified to do, and hey, that's great! But in that case, it’s especially important for us to keep inspired, motivated, and to feel like our hands are so strong we can rip a phone book in half.

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I was always fascinated by the skill set of those LA session cats. The styles, instrumental versatility, sight-reading chops – they just had it all together, though these days, it seems like anyone with a Telecaster who plays “modern country” and owns a laptop is calling him or herself a “session player.” Sure, the times are a changin’, but come on! Let’s check “The List,” shall we?

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It’s funny how so much time is spent in the practice room, in academia, honing one’s skills, but really, in Gig Land, a large part of it all is personality.

In the realm of playing in the pit, know- ing your stuff and being prepared is an ab- solute given. Besides knowing your part and how it fits into the overall score, this means getting your doubles together (mandolin, banjo, ukulele, etc.), always being in tune, having backups for your backups (strings, cables, picks), and so on.

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As a guitarist, playing in a large ensemble can simultaneously be one of the most rewarding and intimidating experiences. Unlike most instrumentalists, guitarists do not have a regular orchestral position. Playing in a pit can be one of the closest opportunities in terms of a consistent position in a large ensemble – and not to mention employment! With reading skills, consistency, versatility, and a good set of ears, one may enjoy regular performance opportunities in this scene.

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