A question for the pros/teachers

[Donny Hinson]

"What constitutes playing at the pro level?"

IMHO, a lot of it is doing it for a living at one time or another. And a lot of it is having the chops and talent to impress people. Let's face it, if you have rather limited capabilities and do something else for a living, you wouldn't be classified as a "pro" in any other vocation.

Why should music be any different?

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"Don't play anything between songs!"

Can't tell you how many times I seen most all pros do that, even Emmons.

Uhh, most everybody "noodles", or loosens up...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrbvG47IvjE

`

[Bob Hoffnar]

"What constitutes playing at the pro level?"

IMHO, a lot of it is doing it for a living at one time or another. And a lot of it is having the chops and talent to impress people. Let's face it, if you have rather limited capabilities and do something else for a living, you wouldn't be classified as a "pro" in any other vocation.

Why should music be any different?

-----------------------------------------------

"Don't play anything between songs!"

Can't tell you how many times I seen most all pros do that, even Emmons.

Uhh, most everybody "noodles", or loosens up...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrbvG47IvjE

`

Donny is right about this. There is a difference with players that make their living playing. Really needing the money changes your perspective along with being so obsessed with music that you don't do anything else. The experience of playing full time is unique. There are tons of part time players that play way better than many pro players so it's not about skill level. It's more about showing up and not having a plan B.

There is no set of rules or even discernible patterns when it comes to playing on a professional level. You practice and try to make a sound you like and get rid of the sounds you make that you don't like.

BTW: I noodle all the time between sets and songs. It's no big deal.

[Josh Moss]

I just wanted to say thanks again to everyone who's taken the time to comment on my post. I really appreciate the insight and advice. It will be put to good use. Thanks y'all.