Tips for Strings Events - from a Bass Roadie

For the record, violin, viola, cello and bass are all well represented in my house.  I supposed if I'd take up harp, we'd be complete in the strings world.  But that's not going to happen!  I've been a bass mom for 4 years now and it's high time I share these tips to aid in the logistics of strings competitions and events.

1. Plan a drop-off lane for bass and cello ONLY.  There's nothing more frustrating when trying to unload your bass and gear than to have the drop-off area clogged with violins.  Event planners - consider a separate lane for bass and cello, and an outer lane or area for violin & viola.  Or perhaps a different parking lot altogether.
2. When you drop off your musician, DRIVE AWAY.  By the time your dear child is old enough to compete at the Jr. High and High School level, they are old enough to walk into the building without your watchful eye from the car blocking the driveway.  Remember:  Stop, Drop and Roll.
3. If you're carrying a smaller instrument, please be aware of the bass bearing down behind you.  If it was easy, everyone would do it!  But there are only a few basses entering the building, usually trying to do so quickly.  The lower bout makes a perfectly good plow when necessary, so walk quickly, or step aside.
4. Moving a bass is a two-handed operation, leaving no free hand to get the door.  So please, if you're carrying a one-handed instrument, be kind to your fellow musician and hold the door open.  Or at least don't allow it to slam in our faces.
5. Planners and directors - the bass and harp rooms do NOT have to be at the farthest point from the entrance to the building.  Really.  This concept also applies to practice and uncasing rooms.  There's nothing fun about navigating a bass through a sea of violinists spread out on the floor to uncase and tune.

Implementing even some of these tips will greatly speed the process of loading, unloading and navigating with strings.  Enjoy your next performance or competition!