Hey, folks...good topic, Dave (and, thanks for the call-it was a BIG help!).

I, too, shut off all arranger functions for 4-6 tunes a job and just play piano. I also play about 40% with just left-handed bass and drums from the arranger.

I also use a nylon string guitar, a steel string acoustic double 6-12 and a Kydd portable upright.

I play bossas on The nylon, vocal accompanyment on the 6-12 and bass solos on the Kydd. I do this, first for variety and second, so I can justify taking depreciation on the stringed instruments.

On some jobs, I use vibes, and take solos. The extra guitars and vibes are mostly for effect, and don't work for shorter (less lucrative) OMB jobs, although I sometimes use the extra strings, along with extra keys on house jobs. I change out instruments every few weeks to keep things interesting.

Works for me..


R.