Role of keyboardist in a band

[Unwritten]

Hello to the human race!

I bet a majority of you are in a band or somewhat close to that. So I'd like to know the "first experience" of joining a band. E.g. was it tough to adapt to your specific role in the band? , how'd you get into one and were your fellow bandmates willing to train you up and such.

Feel free to discuss your virgin experiences! cheers~

 

[pf]

Hi Unwritten! Saw that this is your 2nd post. Welcome to SOFT.

The role of keyboardist in a band is quite broad. I think it can be viewed from the following angles:

• Keyboard instrument

The keyboard has a duo nature. It can be used as a percussion instrument (the piano is used as such in the beginnings of jazz). It can be used as a lead melody instrument. Therefore, the keyboardist can join in the grooves with the rhythm section or stand out to play the lead.

• Keyboardists

The training of pianists (who later on becomes keyboardists) had been traditionally classical, well…most of the time. So, they’re the ones to read the notes and have the music theory background to work out difficult music passages with the band.

And also due to the training of keyboardists to play some bass lines and melody on the right hand, he/she becomes the band member who is better equipped to work out the music arrangement for the band.


For myself, I’m still learning to be a better keyboardist for my band in terms of being the lead instrument. Currently, trying to double up as a bassist as well, because I don’t have one in my band.

EDIT: Maybe some would like to share how he/she switch between the roles in different circumstances such as playing with different people...or how to adjust the role to cover for other band members.

 

[guitarlover]

piano, strings, organ, pads, synth sound...loops.....

any other "voice" if the band does not have the required instrument....

expectation for keyboardist to have the "voice" from other band members