What is a professional musician? A recent experience got me thinking about this very question. It is safe to say that professionals are those who make a living out of something. Yet, I believe that people that don't necessarily make a living at a trade can also be considered professionals.
Coming prepared saves a lot of time for everybody and makes playing in a band way more enjoyable. That's why I would like to note the difference between practice and rehearsal. Although the terms get used interchangeably, there is are fundamental differences that separate concerns when it comes to playing with others.
You've got to learn your instrument. Then you practice, practice, practice. And then when you finally get up there on the bandstand, forget all that and just wail.
— Charlie Parker
Practice is what you do in your own time at home or studio. You learn the song structure, the parts, solos and make sure you have all the cues to play perform your parts as competently as possible. It doesn't have to be perfect, but the more you know a song, the smoother it will go for all parties.
Rehearsal comes after you have practiced on your own and come prepared to put it together with the rest of the band. I believe that musicians should know their parts as well as possible. Just like an actor should know their lines, musicians should know what to come prepared with for the next meet with the band.
In the end, it might be a matter of opinion. That said, making this distinction has helped me improve as a performing musician.
Thanks for reading.
— CSR 🎸