Is it cool to offer constructive criticism?

Mike Perlowin · From: Los Angeles CA

Not too long ago I saw an obvious beginner playing with a band, and I felt that I could have I could have given him some tips, particularly about his right hand technique. But I also felt that it was the wrong time and place, and my comments, however well intentioned, would have been taken the wrong way.

All I said to the guy was that I played too, and he sounded really good. That's all. Nothing more.

Did I do the right thing by simply encouraging him? Or should I have tried to help him, possibly deflating his ego in the process?

How would you guys react if somebody in the audience said "You're doing it wrong, here's how it's supposed to be done"? Would you resent it, even if you could see that he or she was right and it was a helpful tip?
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Darrell Owens · From: California, USA

Mike,

We all feel your PAIN, but you made one comment that answers the question, "playing with a band".

Obviously, someone thought he was good enough to be in the band. I have often wanted to just grab a guitar out of someone's hands and at least TUNE IT! But I have learned they are happy in their folly and one of my best learned rules goes into effect here. That is, "No good deed goes unpunished."

You did the right thing. If it were at a gathering of guitarists where poeple come to learn and observe, that is a different time and place, but at a gig where a guy is paid to play, I think it would have only earned you a thankless reply.
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Paul Sutherland · From: Placerville, California

I think you handled it just right. Any criticism, no matter how well intentioned, is liable to be taken the wrong way when it is uninvited and/or delivered by a stranger whose credentials are unknown.

Jeff Hyman · From: West Virginia, USA

It depends on how it's handled. Who better then another PSG player, or another seasoned picker, to give you constructive criticism. When I'm performing, I ask other players, who say I sound good, the pick at least ONE thing they feel could use improvement (other then chops). I want to hear this feedback. Who else is more qualified? Sure ain't some non-musician who thinks everyone sounds good all the time. Lets say I am in the audience, and do not know the PSG player... and lets say there is an obvious change that would help him/her sound better in the band. I'd simply ask, "Are you up for some feedback?". A yes or no answer will determine where it goes from there. Over the years, 99% of this type of feedback has to do with stage volume, or lack thereof. PSG always seems to get stepped on by Guitar players, and soundmen never put it in the mix.

Mike mentioned right hand technique. I'd find some chop he did that I liked, ask him to show it to me, then proced on sharing one of your chops... the one he needs help with.

Eric West · From: Portland, Oregon, USA, R.I.P.

I don't like constructive criticism.

I've opened myself up to it a number of times.

Only to find myself criticized.

YMMV;)

EJL

Rich Gardner · From: Columbus, Ohio, USA

The easiest thing to give is advice; the hardest thing to take is advice.

Mark van Allen · From: Watkinsville, Ga. USA

When someone comes to me for lessons, or asks for advice or "constructive criticism", I assume that's just what they want.
In my experience, if they haven't asked, they don't want to hear it.
It's tough to be excited about your gig only to have somebody come up and tell you what you're doing wrong. Crying or Very sad

The pursuit of playing,and playing better, involves listening and self-examination, everyone comes to it in their own time.

Bo Legg · Last edited by Bo Legg on 8 Jan 2010 1:34 pm; edited 1 time in total

Yes but,
I don't hit them with the whole maple tree, just plant the seed.

Georg Sørtun · From: Mandal, Agder, Norway

I prefer not to comment at all unless asked, and then I try to figure out what the situation allows for. Of course; people often ask for comments when all they really want is applause, but then it's their problem if what I find most correct to say doesn't sound "right" to them.

If someone comments on what I do, I often simply say "thank you" no matter what, and don't feel much of anything there and then. Those who give me well-intended comments deserve a "thank you". Those who give me not-so-well-intended comments OTOH, may just wonder if I really listened.

Generally, I like to get comments and advices - no matter the direction, as I can always filter them later and figure out if there's something useful in there somewhere.

Jack Francis · From: Queen Creek, Arizona, USA

Good question...If the situation is one that allows you the opportunity to establish a repore...such as talking with him/her over the course of an evening...your comments would be taken in context I'm sure.

Most times this isn't the case and your choice NOT to say anything was correct.

I'm suprised the folks in his band haven't worked with him...or let him go.
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Dan Murphy · From: Missouri, USA

Good topic, Yes I think it can help a player become better. It must be given in a small dose as not to offend said person. I dont offer it unless I see someone struggling with a given issue. Smile

I am the player that I have become due to harsh and subtile corrective criticism.It starts with learning what to play and when .Then when not to play.It is a tool to be used with care.Just my 2 cents worth LOL. Smile

Jim Cohen · From: Philadelphia, PA

I wouldn't offer it unless asked.
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Joseph Barcus · From: Volga West Virginia

always remember you were there once and how would you have took someone telling you??
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Franklin · Posted 21 Dec 2009 6:30 am

Mike,

"If you want a lot of friends, keep your opinions to yourself" - Readers Digest

I read this waiting on a root canal. Its one of those moments I'll never forget Oh Well

PF

Rick Campbell · From: Sneedville, TN, USA

Paul,

If you think the waiting part is fun, wait until they start with those little files inside your tooth. You will survive, but you'll question that a few times before it's over. Good luck with it. Smile

John Lemieux · From: Ontario, Canada

If any comment is made of any kind it should be a positive one and only if requested by the player and ONLY at the end of the gig.Confidence in playing any musical instrument in public can be very fragile.
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Rick Campbell · From: Sneedville, TN, USA

Russ Hicks has got the best line for this:

"I think you played real good. How do you think I played?"

Laughing

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

Mike,

Facial expression plays a huge part in the formalities of the habitual critic. Also, one proven misconception on the part of the critic, tends to shift the shaky pedestal a few degrees to the left.

Gianni Gori · From: Livorno, Italy

I like getting compliments from the audience and constructive criticism from musicians, expecially by the good ones and the pro's. Getting suggestions it's always a good way to grow better.

Of course, I'd love to be able to arouse compliments only, without being in need of cricicism, but I am aware it won't happen in this life.
Let's hope in next LOL :p

a good and useful cricisism is welcome to me! Smile

Barry Blackwood · Posted 21 Dec 2009 7:11 am

I disagree, Mike. Telling a (bad) player they "sounded really good" is kind of like giving a dog a reward for biting you. Shocked

Tony Prior · From: Charlotte NC

Tony Prior · From: Charlotte NC

Roual Ranes · From: Atlanta, Texas, USA

I had another steel player tell me that I was not playing what he wanted to hear...........almost made me cry. Laughing

James Morehead · From: Prague, Oklahoma, USA - R.I.P.

James Morehead · From: Prague, Oklahoma, USA - R.I.P.

Mike, You did the right thing. Unless he knew you well and knew of your skill level and respected YOUR ability, and asked for some feedback, he would likely resent your comments. This is a classic time to go into "I can't save the whole darned world" mode. Opportunities will arise on down the road. But that's me.

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