Classical Players vs Jazzers

You can always tell a Classical musician going to a gig from a Jazz player. The classical guy is dressed in a tuxedo and is wearing black socks and the Jazz guy is dressed in whatever suits him (maybe a dark suit) and is wearing white socks. There are other differences but these anomalies are largely regarding other attitudes.

The classical world demands (and expects) a certain amount of discipline from their players.   However, the Jazz world isn't surprised by the Jazzer's free-wheeling attitudes and mannerisms.  Their apparent lack of discipline can be annoying to some band leaders and conductors. I guess it's the nature of the beast. If they weren't rebels in the first place they wouldn't be musicians. Oh well.

However, it seems the Jazz scene attracts more of these "free spirits" than other fields.

A conductor is getting an orchestra together for a performance but is having trouble getting a clarinet player. Finally, he calls a contractor, who tells him, "Well, the only guy I've got available at the moment is this jazz clarinettist." The conductor replies, "I can't stand working with jazz musicians. They dress lousy, they're always late, and they all have an attitude problem." "Well," replies the contractor, "that's all I've got." "Alright," says the conductor, "I'm getting pretty desperate, so I guess I'll have to take him."

The first rehearsal is a week later. The conductor arrives early and notices the new clarinettist, wearing a suit and tie, with a pencil on his stand, sitting on stage practicing his part.

During the rehearsal, the clarinettist plays his part quite well and is responsive to all the conductor's requests. At the second rehearsal, a week later, the same thing happens. This time, the clarinettist turns in a nearly perfect performance. One week later, at the final dress rehearsal, this occurs again, with the clarinettist now playing his part with great skill.

At the break in the rehearsal, the conductor says to the orchestra, "I've got an apology to make. I was really dreading having to work with a jazz musician, but I must say that our guest clarinet player has certainly proven me wrong. He is always neatly dressed, he was always here early for the rehearsals, working on the part, and he has really learned the music. His whole manner is one of professionalism. He is a pleasant surprise."

Then, to the clarinet player, "I just wanted to tell you that I really appreciate your effort and dedication." To which the clarinettist replies, "Hey man.  It's the least I can do, considering I can't make the gig."