Solo or nono?

[dancingflutist3000]

For band we are given a choice to play in a contest. We
can go solo or be in a groups. I don''t know whether to go solo or not. A duet
might be nice and there are plenty of hard but fun duet songs out there. But if
I''m in a duet I would have to find someone willing to duet (pun!) with me (so
many people are going solo these days...). Also that someone needs to be at
about the same level of playing as me since I would want to shine them out or
vice versa. Solos are simple. It''s just one instrument, one beat, one you.
But doing a solo would mean if you mess up, it''s clear as glass. Which do you
think is the best?

[fluteluversmom]

I think both playing solo or in a duet have advantages.
In a duet you can do some really pretty songs and it shows that you can play
along with another person well and keep in time with them. I get chills each
time I listen to my daughter and her teacher play a duet together...and I have
to say that I have a blast playing duets with my daughter. On the other hand
solo's can be fun and valuable also. It gives you a chance to show what you can
do as far as skill wise which band sometimes does not allow you to do. It may
allow you to challenge yourself in a way that a duet won't if you don't have
someone equal in the skill department. I myself am a duet person...my daughter
on the other hand would prefer a solo anyday. Good Luck and let us know what you
decide to do Kim

[embum79]

I guess it depends what your goals are for the contest.
Do you want to showcase your own abilities, or just have fun and make great
music? Would you be upset if your duet partner didn't play things exactly
right? How stressed do you want to be? There are pros and cons for solo and
group. Good luck!