Showband Musicians
The Showband musician is the epitome of versatility and musical prowess. They possess that special combination of exceptional playing skills and the ability to read music fluently. Showband musicians are adept at playing various genres, showcasing their improvisational skills, and seamlessly navigating unexpected surprises during live performances. They are the backbone of the ship's main theater, providing musical support for Vegas-style production shows and headliners alike. With commanding stage presence, quick adaptability, and a sharp musical IQ, success in this role is assured. Picture the Tonight Show gig, but set against the backdrop of the main theater at sea.
Trumpet
We cast for both lead and 2nd trumpet players. Both positions require a strong reading skill set along with versatility across multiple genres. For 1st trumpet players we are looking for guys who can play up into the rafters. Maynard/Jerry Hey/Arturo - we know those guys are the GOATS but you get the picture. You have to be able to get up to the top register! 2nd players must have a good range but more importantly strong improv chops.
Trombone
Trombonists should have great reading abilities, range, intonation and improv chops. You will be playing in a full horn section at times or you could be part of a jazz set from time to time. Either way, versatility is key.
Drums
The drum chair in the showband sets the tone for how things are going to roll! We are looking for drummers who blow us away. Getting through the chart isn’t going to cut it! This may be the most competitive position of all cruise ship musician spots so you need to be on your game. Strong reading, versatility, comfortable in multiple genres and the ability to show out when the time comes is crucial. We are looking for showband drummers with SWAG. Their attitude and playing abilities let everyone know whats up.
Sax/Reeds
Sax players must be able to double on both flute and clarinet. You never know what a show will call for, so having the full range of reeds is required. Strong reading is a must as well. The sax chair is also a versatile one. You could be playing a big band set on clarinet and next thing you know be front and center stage blowing the crowd away with a classic pop sax solo (which everyone will know by heart), so you need to come correct. Benny Goodman all the way to David Sanborn….thats what we are looking for.
Bass
Bass players must have strong note for note reading abilities as well as chord chart know how. Playing upright is a plus but not a make or break by any means. We are looking for bassists with super solid groove regardless of the genre and a really good grasp on bass technique as well. Our founder is a bass player so this audition will test your skill for sure! Get your Jaco, Marcus, Stanley and Victor tunes ready because we want to see how far you can go!
Guitar
Showband guitarists must have excellent reading chops of both note for note charts as well as chord charts. The ability to interpret styles is crucial. We want the player who can play Wes Montgomery if needed or can turn the corner and rip a legit Prince solo. We really mean legit, no faking. The guitarist in the showband has a lot of ground to cover and can be the make or break on how well rounded the band is. Know how of tones/pedals and a strong knowledge base of tunes is also of high value.
Piano
Showband Pianists must be versatile! Being a jazz guy is great but we also need to know that you blaze through some Michael Mcdonald or Michael Jackson with the same authority and legitimacy. Improv skills are a must as well as being able to double well on a keyboard. You never know what will be thrown at you when headliners come onboard so you’ve got to be well rounded
We look forward to reviewing your application and hopefully, being able to take the next steps to either setting you up with call back audition materials or moving forward with submitting you for an open position. We look forward to serving you as an artist and team member.