Rules for the Jazz Sideman

An essential guide for Jazz side musicians

Don't complain during a gig. If you don't enjoy a particular gig, simply say that you're busy the next time you're called for it. One bad attitude can make everyone on the bandstand miserable.
If you don't know a tune, read it. It's far more acceptable to play it correctly than to look cool by not reading, then screw a tune up because you don't really know it.
Ask about appropriate attire and strive to always look good on stage.
If you're not qualified for the gig, don't take it.
If you can't fulfill the requirements for the gig, don't take it.
Keep your chops up. The worst thing for a musician is to get an opportunity you are unprepared for.
Always be ready to play on time for downbeat.
Never ask the leader how much money they make for the gig. As a sideperson, your business is only what you are making.
Listen to the other band members' solos. Don't socialize while they're playing.
When you attend someone else's gig, don't pull out your instrument until you're asked to sit in. Do not noodle on your instrument while the band performs. Warm up prior to arriving at the venue.

If you call a tune while sitting in at a jam session, make sure that you know it very well.
At a jam session, sit down after one tune unless you're asked to stay and play more.
After you play at a jam session, stay around for a while. It is rude to leave the venue soon after playing.
Stay sober enough to play well throughout the gig. The musician community is small and word travels fast.
Never come back and take another complete solo on a tune that you've already had a complete solo on.
Horns and other melody instruments need to know the chord progressions to tunes as well as the melodies.
When calling a tune, never count off a tempo so fast that other players feel uncomfortable.
Network. Go to other player's gigs and support them. Get to know the musicians and eventually sit in when asked. If you want to work, people have to know who you are.