matthewwengerdtrio played its first gig this evening: a 2 hour hit at the Lakeland North Starbucks. I just posted a gigspam on this one. I have to say that I haven’t been this nervous for a gig in a long time. This was the first time I’ve led a band and my compatriots had never met one another before tonight. Things weren’t as loose as they’ve been with either player in the past (under other circumstances), but the people who came really enjoyed it and we had a good time. There was a biker meet right next door that caused quite a ruckus for the first half. I even called a break after only a half hour because I was so nervous (and slightly frazzled)!
I am very disappointed that only one of the jazz students at the University showed up, and he will be playing the gig next week! This was a perfect opportunity for young jazz students to hear free live jazz (only 10-15 minutes from campus!) and they didn’t take advantage. I really hope the student turn-out is better next week.
I’m pretty excited about the idea of matthewwengerdtrio and eager to find more places to play. I learned a lot about doing this kind of thing tonight and am looking forward to next week.
I even made a poster for mwt outings.
Sadly I think choice of venue may have had something to do with the fact so few “jazz students” turned up.
Is this is what jazz has become?
Playing in corporate coffee houses?
They came out the next week. It just took some cajoling. I’m not sure where you’re from, but if it’s not Lakeland, you may not realize just how close to the precipice of rural wasteland I am. My quintet has played many a gig for very appreciative (though often misguided) citrus farmers, all the while competing with the still-playing country jukebox. Any chance to play and eek out a living is a blessing in this town.
I know a couple people for whom Starbucks is a good steady. No, the money’s not great, but you have to educate your audience, which means you first have to cultivate it.
Meanwhile, though I am trying to distance myself from the hero worship of my youth, If it’s good enough for Ray Brown, there’s a good chance it’s good enough for me.