Thinking of Starting a Band? Read These Tips!

c/o: Charlie Balch

Have you always dreamed of starting your own band? It may sound like a tall order, but the truth is that starting a band is a very realistic option that can give you the exposure you need. The key lies in how you choose your band members. Since you don’t want to be replacing band members as much as you change your socks, you should have a clear plan of action for starting your band. Follow these simple but effective pointers.

Which Band Members Do You Need?

Although you may want to start a band with some of your favorite friends, you won’t get anywhere unless you have a specific need for each band member. Decide which band members will help you accomplish your vision and then seek out these individuals. Don’t try to fit people in just because you like them or they have a musical talent. You must think of a band that will sound good together.

Find Your Musicians

This step can take time, but it deserves the most, so that’s okay. The best way to find people is from your own circle of acquaintances or by word of mouth. Other places you can try are local music shops such as Catfish Music that may be able to point you in the right direction. You can leverage the internet and look for band members on sites like Craigslist or MeetYourBand.com. Or, try the traditional route of hanging flyers in local stores or posting an ad in the newspaper.

Establish Ground Rules

Start simple, but make sure you have some basic rules in place. The questions you should have answered include:

-      What is the practice schedule like?

-      Where will practices be held?

-      How will expenses be paid for?

You should also consider how you will discipline band members who don’t show up to practice. In the early stages, practice is the backbone of your success and should be treated that way.

Who Will be the Main Contact?

It may not be easy assigning a boss, especially if you want things to be a team effort. But your band should have a leader or main contact, and that should be established early on. Decide how much authority the leader will have. Maybe all band members will have a say in the songs that are played, but when it comes to getting gigs and promoting your band, the “boss” will handle these tasks. 

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