For a Long & Productive Career

1. Be early.
2. Show-up at proper studio.
3. Be on time.
4. Keep a good attitude.
5. Keep mouth shut!
6. Keep feet still.
7. Don't talk!
8. Smile!
9. Mind your own business.
10. Don't complain about parking.
11. Sharpen pencil.
12. Fill out forms immediately.
13. Set up instruments 10 minutes before downbeat.
14. Pay Attention!
15. Keep earphones on.
16. Don't leave earphones uncovered.
17. Listen!
18. Be Ready to play at all times.
19. Keep hands down.
20. Stay awake.
21. Don't make any noise!
22. Be polite.
23. Say hello to leader.
24. Charisma at all times.
25. Don't leave the stand.
26. Warm-up very softly.
27. Actually tune to the given "A".
28. Mark your parts so anyone can read.
29. Don't ask questions.
30. Watch leader.
31. Stay mellow.
32. Don't forget mutes.
33. Keep instrument in working condition.
34. Always seem interested in the music.
35. Don't look ahead.
36. Stop playing when leader stops.
37. Never talk immediately after a "Take"!
38. Never hang over at end.
39. Don't play melodies that may have been "ripped-off".
40. Try to only have enough chops for that particular job.
41. Don't correct wrong notes after the final take.
42. Be congenial.
43. Don't over compliment "great performances".
44. Never point at other musicians.
45. Use the "chain of command".
46. Laugh at every joke.
47. Say "yes" to everything.
48. Blend and balance.
49. Concentrate.
50. Be quiet!
51. Stay in chair.
52. Be budget-conscious.
53. Say thanks to everyone.
54. Don't be critical of fellow musicians.
55. Don't drink booze on the job!
56. No drugs!
57. Talk only on 10's!
58. Do not bother contractor!
59. Focus!
60. SILENCE!
61. Concentrate.
62. Stay out of the booth.
63. Compliment engineers.
64. Stay away from producers.
65. Don't eat booth food.
66. Don't complain about air conditioner.
67. Don't complain about mix.
68. Don't expect booth improvements, decade to decade.
69. Don't "produce" from the orchestra.
70. Don't pack-up early.
71. Don't leave until you're excused.
72. Pick-up all reminders.
73. Clean up area when finished.
74. Don't make an ass out of yourself!
75. Never ever say, Who wrote this shit!?!

 Copyright © 1997-2010 Gary E. Grant. Used with permission.