Guitarist Richard of PWM talks about the trio.

 

Richard (of RBB): This morning we're very pleased to be able to chat to one of the members of the trio 'Playing With Myself' who are about to make a bit of a splash in the Wellington Jazz Scene. No pun intended. The trio consists of violin, guitar and double bass and they have the immediate intention of recording nine of their original tunes. Welcome Guitarist Richard, how are things going so far?

Guitarist Richard of PWM: Hi Richard (of RBB) and thank you for inviting me onto your blog for a chat. I'm a regular reader. Yes, the band seems to be settling in and we're focusing on three tunes at a time. Today's job is to work on the changes to Mr. G.P. I'm probably the least experienced of the three of us, but I've made it clear that I'm not just here to play the chords.

Richard (of RBB): Yes, I know that you've probably played less gigs than the other two. Does this come up much in conversation?

Guitarist Richard of PWM: Well, to be honest, no. Not really. Violinist Richard goes on a bit about violin strings and his approach to scales. I guess that Double Bass Richard is a bit possessed with always wanting to play the tune. I can appreciate that these tunes were originally written as bass tunes, but he needs to move with the times a bit. They both record their practice hours, but I don't. Maybe us guitarists are a bit more relaxed? I just want them both to understand that I am a full member of this trio and I intend to hold my weight. The more variety, the better. Anyway, I have been playing a long time.

Richard (of RBB): Does violin Richard see himself as the leader? I mean, the violin is quite a 'melody' instrument.

Guitarist Richard of PWM: No. Double Bass Richard is definitely in charge. I guess he's the one who has worked more on all of the tunes. I'm happy with that, it's just that I don't want to hear any more about violin strings. If he mentions scale fingerings again, I'm going to suggest that he puts a capo on his bloody violin. 

Richard (of RBB): Okay, I think I'm getting a vibe here. Maybe Violin Richard just needs to step back a bit?

Guitarist Richard of PWM: Yes, and preferably back into a big hole. Okay, okay, I know we've got to work together, and there is a lot of work to be done. Mr. G.P. has some quite interesting chords and we are all aware that we need to play nice lines over them when it's solo time. People will want to hear variety between the three of us. This is something we'll have to watch.

Richard (of RBB): Well, thanks Guitarist Richard, that's given us quite an insite into the group. One last thing, how do you feel about the name - Playing With Myself?

Guitarist Richard of PWM: Well, music playing is about playing. It sort of suggests unity withing the group, something that I hope Violin Richard is aware of. I've been busy practising since the group's formation and haven't had time to really research the name. I think it works and we should all place our hands on it.

Richard (of RBB): Well thanks, Guitarist Richard, and good luck for the upcoming recording.

Guitarist Richard of PWM: Thanks.