Dear Alma,
I have been on the sub list for an excellent summer orchestra and I’ve just had my first week of work. My problem is that I don’t quite know how to behave. My standpartner is very cold and barely acknowledges me. She doesn’t meet my eye. So I have just been trying to keep my nose down but I feel quite awkward. I don’t know if if should play soft or play with passion. Hide or show myself both with playing and my personality. I want to be rehired but I don’t know what they are looking for.
New Kid on the Block
Dear NKotB,
Congratulations! You took your sub audition, you got on the list, and they called you. That is great. Now the real work begins. There is a lot up in the air – new people, new expectations. You may be nervous, but you can do this!
Observe, observe, observe. Introduce yourself if it feels appropriate. Try to remember the names of new people (keep a discreet list of new people). Dress well and understated. Be ready to receive criticism with an open mind. Be as prepared as possible so that you can observe and fit in. Watch videos of the orchestra, if available, to get to know their style. Does the orchestra play delayed to the conductor’s ictus? What types of colors and techniques does your section use?
Be kind and formal to your standpartner, following their lead on how much to interact. Give them the space they need. Every orchestra has their own unwritten etiquette. Try to match the energy and physicality of your section. Don’t stick out or try to prove yourself. You are there to play your instrument, not to socialize.
NKotB, the first week on the job is tough. Stay the course, keep vigilante, and with luck this will be the first of many times you have a chance to play wonderful music with this new group!
Questions for Alma? Please put them in the comments section or send to DearAlmaQuery@gmail.com
The post Dear Alma, I’m a summer sub and I’m in trouble appeared first on Slippedisc.
