Bass Musician Magazine - SPECIAL August 2014 Female Bassist Issue | Page 55

These are necessary and ongoing long-term changes, but overall, I feel that the world is getting better for us. We now have women leading countries, being the head of major corporations, and artists obtaining their deserved attention – all because of their talent, not their gender. We, women of 2014, are planting beautiful seeds towards an even better gender equality for future generations of females in the workforce and in the arts. What specific challenges do you face as a female bassist? Probably the same as men: lifting heavy gear, having to multi-task with different bands, finding time to practice, etc. What do you feel are the advantages? Absolutely, the intriguing factor of, “Oh… she’s a girl and she plays bass, wow, I’ve never seen that before…” draws more attention to my work. It makes them listen to my music, and eventually support my work. Do you find that you constantly have to prove yourself... as a musician, or a musician that happens to be a female? Just as a musician, like any other man trying to be a full-time professional bassist in New York. The competition here is tough, everyone is so awesome. Every time I get called for a gig, I’m aware that at least 50 other bassists could have been called for the same job, and killed it. Do you feel, as a female bassist, that you receive the professional respect afforded male bassists? Yes, from the people who know me. Once in a while, I have to deal with a sound engineer, a musician, or a security guy in a club that treat me in a condescending way. But usually they change their attitude, once they hear me act in a professional way and play my bass. What is your advice on how to be taken professionally in the music industry? Don’t allow people to find ‘flaws’ in your professional life. Many musicians sometimes think that they can get away with certain things because they are ‘artists.’ I know this is the obvious, but it’s amazing how I see so many people closing doors because of lack of professionalism. So, my advice is… 1) Show up on time – if you’re stuck in traffic, or you might be more than 4 minutes late, contact the bandleader and let him/her know. 2) Learn the music – come prepared, try to nail the material before you leave your house. 3) Be nice – be respectful to your band mates. No one wants to work with someone that’s in a bad mood, or arrogant, etc.…Obviously, we’re all humans, and sometimes, life can get on bassmusicianmagazine.com | aug 2014 | #bassmusicianmag | the face of bass I don’t think it’s a matter of changing the music industry, but changing society and how it treats women. The music industry is just a reflection of people’s beliefs. I feel very grateful that I get to live in New York and make a living playing bass. Things are much easier for me than they probably were for Carol Kaye. And yet, I keep thinking of other countries, where women currently have limited rights. They are not allowed to receive basic education, vote, or work. These women would never be able to touch an instrument, and could not even imagine making a living out of it.