Playing well with others

Just finished reading a biography of Jerry Garcia, which was pretty interesting as it was focused on the music.   One of the themes that parallels my musical experience was how certain players can give or create energy for the other players and make a group sound better.   The book gave examples of how Bruce Hornsby joined the Dead in the 90's and how his stage presence and attitude pushed the band to higher levels of play, during a period when the band was particularly flat musically.   

What did Bruce do that was so magic?   In the descriptions, it was all about in the moment communication - eye contact, smiling, being aware of the other players space, listening, and playing to compliment as well as lift the other players.  

That description woke me up a bit as it reminded me of so many musicians I have had the privilege of playing with over the years.   Its also  how I try to be when I play in any group setting.    It is such a kick to play with folks who give back and also such a lift to my playing when it comes my way.   Even better, I enjoy the giving aspect, and seeing how it affects others I play with.   I always try to compliment the folks around me, and to do what I can to make them sound better.   (Perhaps because most of my musical life has been as a bass and rhythm guitar player? - naw its deeper than that)   Even when playing the lead stuff on mandolin or banjo I find it more fun when my part is pushed a bit by a solid rhythm player who communicates and has the ability to listen and pick the spots.   

I have so many "favorite" people that I play with that to name folks would probably cause some sins of omission.    But one gal stands out because it was from playing and jamming with her that I first became aware that doing this stuff was important to my development as a musician.  That's my friend Rachel Eddy.  BTW - if you haven't heard the CD she and her husband Kristian Herner   recently finished  - "Chilly Winds" do yourself a favor and pick it up at CD Baby.  Rachel is a great singer, fiddler, and all around performer.   Kristian is one heck of an OT banjo player and also a great person to play music with.

                                  Me and Rachel summer 2010 at the Dinosaur BBQ

I can't say I've ever seen any musician who blends so well with so many different players of all levels, and who has the ability to make the players around her sound better.   She is always passing smiles and nods when she plays and lets you know when its working.  Her eye contact speaks volumes.    It's a true talent that she has, and one that I continually aspire to.