Hi Roger,

Depends on the needs of the specific band and on a given night (gig). The advantage of the arranger is flexibility. As an arranger player, you can act as one of the band's keyboard rhythm section players (keyboard comping) with live drummer & bass player = rhythm section core (bass, drums piano), add keyboard line (and or other instrument emulation) solos, or use the arranger's auto accomp (as needed) to fill in for missing live rhythm section players: bass, drums, horn sec, etc, or missing soloists (sax, vibes) etc.

As much I appreciate the arranger keyboard for it's one man performance convenience, ability to fill in parts for missing band members, and as a valuable tool for solo practice & playing improvement (especially for tightening up one's musical playing/timing (and to be come versed in playing a wide variety of styles) their is no substitute to the rewards/musical growth gained from playing with competant musicians.

ONE IMPORTANT thing I learned long ago ( and which I'll never forget) from elder experienced pro players & teachers) is to always strive to play with musicians who play BETTER than you. If you only play with musicians equal/less skilled than youself, you won't improve, but playing with better players, you'll be challenged to keep up with them, and gain a lot of music insight & knowledge along the way as well. Unfortunately the catch-22 of this is that higher skilled/experienced musicians may not be interested in playing with you. Thankfully, at least in my community, there remains older experienced musicians interested in passing their torch of wisdom to younger up and coming performers who show promise. I'm ever thankful to the those seasoned pro musicians who took the time & interest to take me under their wing when I first started out, inviting me sit in on their gigs, as well as having me appear as a guest performer. As musicians, we are truly a special community of artists willing to help one another out. This is especially apparent with many of the SZ members here as well. The SZ arranger forum is truly a special place to me.

Scott