PHISH:; LEARNING TO SWIM WITH THE BIG BOYS April 8, 1993 - St. Louis Post-Dispatch (CALENDAR; Pg. 9) by STAFF JUST when the complaints about the loss of American craftsmanship are the loudest, along comes a band called Phish. Now before anyone starts squawking about the differences between art and craft, nobody will argue that musicians have to learn their craft well before they can develop it into anything more refined. That is exactly what the art-rock quartet from Burlington, Vt., did through years of practice and years of touring. Phish not only built a regional following before it was signed to a record deal with Elektra, it also was expanding its success across the country, selling out shows in clubs almost everywhere it played. Members of the band are Trey Anastasio, guitar and vocals; Mike Gordon, bass and vocals; Page McConnell, keyboards and vocals; and Jon Fishman, drums and trombone. It was from Fishman that the name of the band was taken. Phish formed at the University of Vermont in 1983. McConnell joined in 1985. For a time, three of the members lived in the same house practicing in marathon jam sessions. Then they began doing shows, building on their ability to play and honing their showmanship. Phish will be at the American Theatre, 9th and St. Charles sts., at 8 p.m. April 14. Tickets are $14.50 in advance, $16 the day of the show. Information: 291-7600.