So You Want to Start a Band?

Creating a band can be difficult, but once you get going it is a very rewarding experience. Being in a band myself, I have experienced this first hand. You will find obstacles along the way, but it is the same with anything. Here are some handy hints to help you and your band along the way.

1. Band Members 

Choosing band members can be a long-winded process. It is easiest to start a band with friends apposed to people you may not be as friendly towards.  You should get to know new members of your band. This will help you in making decisions and helping each other throughout your band experiences.

2. Choosing songs 

You must find songs that all band members can connect with. Allow input from all band members and choose on a song that you all enjoy. If you play music that you enjoy playing, things will be a lot more natural to you. All band members must be familiar with the song prior to band practice. Knowing the song and how to play it will cut down on the time wasted in band practices. Maximizing band practice efficiency is very important in a band.  You should also consider making original songs. This is a great way to get your band heard.

3. Practice 

A word you should get very familiar with.  The quote “Practice makes perfect” doesn’t just sound good. The more you practice the better your band will be able to play together and will help you familiarize with the songs you have chosen to play. You should find a set area to have band practice and make sure all band members are able to easily get there. It would be impractical to have band practice a far distance from where you all live. Getting lessons for the instrument you play could help you play with the rest of the band. It may improve technique, rhythm, or even help to learn the songs.

4. Listening

A lot of bands get this part wrong. All band members should have a say in everything in the band. Whether it be what songs to play, ideas in song creation, proposing an event to play at,  or choosing a new band member. If all band members have a say in what happens there will be less arguments.

5. Obstacles

Every band will come across several obstacles such as equipment malfunctioning, deadlines for a set list, fights between band members, money and so on. Being able to overcome these issues is crucial and will help to further develop the band. Also, you must not shift the blame onto a particular band member. This could result in the loss of a band member and potentially the band falling apart.

6. Performing

So you have worked hard and it’s time to show off what you got! Often the venue you are playing at will have equipment set up and you will only need to bring minimal equipment, mainly instruments, effects pedals, leads and such. Before performing make sure your instrument is tuned properly and everything is working as planned. When you are playing you must look confident even if you are not. If you look as if you are enjoying yourself, the crowd will enjoy it as well. Remember, if you make a mistake, make it look as if you didn’t. Continue playing as if it didn’t happen and most of the time the audience will not even notice.

Well, those are my tips for playing in a band. Hopefully these tips will help some of you with your venture into the music world, best of luck!