The phrase “a jack of all trades” was originally a compliment. It has become a pejorative with the addition of “is a master of none.” Another line (probably apocryphal) is now sometimes added: “but often times better than a master of one.” Polymath is good term.

Whatever the label, versatility is the prime skill possessed by most successful studio musicians. As Phil Teele once told me regarding style and technique, “What we do isn’t as ‘perfect’ as you think it is. . . . You need to be able to do 98% of the stuff, at a 98% level, 98% of the time.” Also see Doubling . . .

Even symphony orchestras, once citadels of specialization, are starting to employ “utility infielders” in the low brass section. Alto trombone, tenor trombone, bass trombone, contrabass trombone, bass trumpet, tenor tuba . . .” Jim Nova, Jim Miller, Brian Hecht, et al. . . . This appears to be the wave of the future!

Speaking of Jim Nova . . . and Denis Jiron . . .