Lessons from the bandstand:
Bands often have “regular” members - people who play with the band all the time. When the “regular” can’t make a gig, a “sub” is called. Being the “sub” is the ultimate form of service. What makes a good “sub”?
You blend in - make the band members think the “regular” never left, you become “part of” the team.
You leave an air of mystery about you - you keep your best stuff inside because your job is not to show off, but to play your part… though on occasion you drop some little gems here and there to pique your bandmates’ interest.
You fail, adapt, and learn ultra quickly. There were times when the band leader would call songs that I didn’t know and had to learn on the fly - that’s the gig. Fail, learn, and apply your learnings ultra fast - nobody has time to wait for you, and nobody is coming to help.
What makes a good “sub” is what makes a great team member.
You adopt the posture of what it means to be on the team you’re on.
You leave an air of mystery about you - do your part and always hold a little back.
You fail, adapt and learn ultra quickly - not letting yourself get stalled by mistakes, because they will happen.
I’m always impressed and humbled by how much music teaches and shows us what it means to contribute, lead, and be serviced by strong performing teams.
That said… I left the best part of being a sub out… the best part is when you get invited back.
