There is a phrase: “You have to pass the ball in order to play the game.”
But this is not strictly a literal statement. This concept is applicable to any team endeavor and is important for not only the success of the team, but for the well-being of the individual team members. Music is no exception. An important aspect of playing as an ensemble is supporting each other so that the music can be expressed to its fullest potential.
This means each individual must use their line to contribute to the melody and the overall aesthetic of the piece.
If you have the melody, that’s great. It’s relatively easy to figure out what you need to do from there. However, when you no longer have the melody, it is important to play your line the way it is meant to be. Sensitivity to what you can do to support the melodic line is important.
How you play, particularly when you don’t have the melody, will have a considerable impact on how others will play and what the audience will perceive. The precise effect it will have on the others in the ensemble is dependent on a variety of factors. Sometimes playing strongly will help the one with the melody get into the music and play it like it should be. Other times, backing off a little gives them space to play it like the melody it is.
It is up to you to figure out what actions will be helpful to the music-making process and what factors will inhibit the others. Ensemble playing requires a certain level of vulnerability, and musicians must respect that.
If you are in an ensemble of any kind, remember: you have to pass the music to play. Play out when necessary, but also share the center stage in accordance with the music. It shows consideration and understanding for the music and your colleagues. Don’t play something a certain way because you can. Play it a certain way because it is right.
A Musical Mentality 