Weaknesses Exposed

On Wednesday night, two of the double bassists that I play with in the NYCO were unable to make it to rehearsal. Well, in that kind of situation, your weaknesses are completely exposed. Essentially, I held my own. I still have much to work on and a lot to learn. Although, I learned very quickly how much I lean on the others in my section; mostly on when to come in after long rests. Counting is easy, but when the phrasing of orchestra is focusing on off-beats, it can throw you for a loop. Anyway, you have to be very focused when you're under-staffed, especially when your principal player is away.