Help! 'Jersey Bounce' solo in a large hall/no mic

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LeoInFL
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Location: Orlando, FL

Help! 'Jersey Bounce' solo in a large hall/no mic

Post by LeoInFL »

First time playing a gig with the Orlando Big Band. 3hr show, 3 sets. Great venue that's large, but not huge (we're expecting 300+ swing dancers). I'll be playing the solo in 'Jersey Bounce' that calls for a plunger for the ending solo portion. Since this is the first time for me (plunger solo), should I play it "half-open" to get enough volume? Is a no-stem Harmon an accepted substitute for the plunger?

Thanks in advance!
LeoInFL
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Doug Elliott
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Re: Help! 'Jersey Bounce' solo in a large hall/no mic

Post by Doug Elliott »

With no mic, if you use a plunger at all no one in the audience will hear it. You'll hear yourself and think it's perfect.
"I know a thing or two because I've seen a thing or two."
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BrassedOn
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Re: Help! 'Jersey Bounce' solo in a large hall/no mic

Post by BrassedOn »

It's a solo. Do what works. You have options.

If no amplification, you might be better off just playing the open horn. I've had occasions, however, where there was just a mic for the sax. Use it.

Solotone/Cleartone mute has a great sound. I've used this one for pit work. Another option.



Plunger with Pixie might have more highs and cut a bit.


Trombone on Harmon has to be my least used mute ever.

Benny Goodman band.


Best on the band gig.
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LeoInFL
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Location: Orlando, FL

Re: Help! 'Jersey Bounce' solo in a large hall/no mic

Post by LeoInFL »

Thanks for all the advice. I ended up playing the 2nd part open. There were mics, but only along the front row with the saxes.
LeoInFL
Getzen 4047DS :
~Bousfield S
~Conn 5G | Edwards .525"
Olds P-24G : G&W Mark-1 | Wessex .555"
Melton 41 F Cimbasso : DE CB S118_L*_L16Am
Holton 77 Fr Horn : Laskey 825G

CFCA Symphony Orch
(2016-present)
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