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.