A couple of questions about solos and arrangement: Do instruments typically only solo the verse/chorus, or are there times they’d do both? Also, is there ever any rhyme or reason as to the order of which instruments solo when?
Soloing Theory
3 Likes
In a jam, eight times out of ten the solo is over the verse form. There are exceptions—check out “Old Train” by the Tony Rice Unit. There’s only one solo section, and it takes the form of a whole verse and chorus, split between three instruments.
Sometimes the leader of the jam will be cueing people for their breaks; other times it goes around the circle no matter what. In traditional bluegrass band scenarios, you’ll notice that banjo, fiddle and mandolin often take the first breaks and guitar solos often come last. But again, final say goes to the band to arrange it how they like for each song.
3 Likes
Great thanks!
1 Like
It depends. Is the short answer. If you take the lead you can choose what to play. Generally no set rules.
1 Like