What is the proper etiquette when subbing for another harpist at a steady gig?
When you sub for another harpist at a steady gig, I would recommend treating the harpist as a client. This harpist has worked hard to maintain their gig and they are trusting you to sub for them in a professional manner. To show this, be sure to ask questions about the gig such as: What is the best arrival time and where should I park? What is the name of the contact person at the venue? What is the appropriate attire? What kind of repertoire is expected? What is the break schedule? Is a tip jar allowed? What should I do if a customer asks for a business card?
Social media postings from a gig are tricky. Remember, this is not your gig, and I always recommend asking the harpist if it is okay for you to post a gig picture and if the harpist says, “no,” please honor their decision. After the gig, be sure to let them know how it went and thank them for the job. This really shows your respect for the harpist, and your professionalism will be appreciated and might give you more subbing opportunities.
—Cindy Horstman
When subbing for a steady gig, respect for the position should always be your highest priority. Your presence will reflect directly on the resident harpist, so outstanding performance etiquette is required: arrive early, be gracious to the staff and guests, strictly adhere to the break schedule, dress appropriately, and play repertoire that is entertaining and relevant to the audience. If applicable, do a walk through beforehand to understand the setup logistics. It is considerate to check in afterward and confirm that the performance went smoothly. The steady harpist will be grateful for the peace of mind that is provided by having a reliable sub.
However, equal care must also be given to ensure that you do not upstage the harpist who hired you. Refrain from networking with the management and becoming too friendly with co-workers. No one wants to feel as though they are easily replaceable; chances are you’ll be removed from the sub list if you are perceived as eager to outshine them.
Everyone wins when there are dependable harpists to fill in for steady gigs. The venue is more likely to grant scheduling flexibility, the regular musician can take breaks without concern of their job being jeopardized, and you will benefit from the additional performance opportunities.
—Dawn Bishop
When the opportunity arises to sub for a steady, there are a few things to keep in mind. Musical preparedness, professional decorum, and social norms. Each steady will have slightly different institutions running the show, therefore different rules to follow. However, the etiquette remains the same. Be musically prepared for what the gig is about. Whether it is solo or ensemble, practice, rehearse, put your best foot forward, and show up as if you have already played the gig. Know the music inside and out so you aren’t second guessing the day of.
Exhibit professional decorum, both in attire and in attitude. Figure out ahead of time what is appropriate to wear. Not all attire fits all gigs! Have options to dress up or dress down if the situation changes. Present yourself with a positive attitude and be flexible to changes. You are not only representing yourself as a professional harpist, but you also represent the harpist who holds the steady, as well as the institution who hired you. Display a willingness to learn and be taught. A seasoned player may not know the unspoken rules surrounding the gig. A humble and open-minded player will be favored, regardless of all the aforementioned preparedness. •
