Breed of keyboardist

[Shimano]

Hello readers, I can't help but noticing a few threads concerning keyboardist who are either proud, wanting to steal the limelight and also better off being a one man band show.
I am a keyboardist myself being greatly influenced by Depeche Mode and other electronica groups in 80's onwards and I feel that the statement above is a 50-50 true and false statement nor accusation.
As a keyboardist and also had played with in bands with different musical instruments, I personally find that keyboardist also plays a great part in providing accompanient musical to the rest of the band...espescially in terms of wind instruments. I bet you can never find a wind instrumentalist in a rock band 8O
Furthermore, I do agree upon the fact that at times the keyboardist may tend to steal the limelight of the guitarist espescially in solos but these can also be compromised between them.
Having played in a pub recently in 2004, I found that certain genre of music I do need an occassional guitarist to be on stage to be rocking with me and without that the stage would be kinda empty. (normally its a 2 piece band) BUT being a solo man is not really an impossible thing. Local "John Chan from John Chan Entertainment" is doing so. He plays solo throughout the SEA region. You may check his website at www.celvianomusic.com
Last but not least, no two keyboardist is the same

 

[bongman]

yeah, no matter how, a synth cannot replace a live guitar !!!

guitar and synth are the main attraction.

 

[Shimano]

well, it would be nice if there's a chance of me playing with a 4piece or 5 piece and really test out my capabilities and also my weak points
however, where could i acquire the "shoulder keyboards" where u strap and play "like a guitar"? hehe, definitely a big hit if could play side by side a lead guitarist instead of hiding behind the curtains...LOLOLOL

 

[nixflames]

I think as a pianist (keyboardist, whatever you prefer), our main aim is to compliment the band. Since rock even existed, people always thought of the guitar, and not the synth/keyboard/piano. Sure, we get our solos, but we're only there to compliment. I think it's only when you're a concert pianist, or play for a jazz group - that's the time when you can really get your talent out there. Other than that, for rock/metal groups, it's the guitarists and the drummers. Although their pianists are no doubt, extremely skilled, the public isn't paying much attention to them (unless they themselves are pianists).