I’m With The Band – How To Start Up A Music Group
Being in a band can be a great hobby. You are learning a new constructive skill, socializing and working towards a goal. But how easy is it to set up and keep a band going in real life? Continue reading to find out.
You
Of course,you are the absolute master of whatever instrument you play. You might be an axe god, or a cello impresario, or even a piano genius, but before you start looking for other people to buy in you band.
It might be a good idea to have a clear vision of what you are looking for. Do you want to be the front person? Are you happy to do covers, or will only original music do? How many people do you need in the band to get the sound you are looking for?
You also need to think about whether it is going to be more of a hobby or if you hope to head for big time success and play festival likes Bearded Theory? Whatever you do make sure that you choose people that are onboard with your vision.
Them
Choosing people to be a part of your group is primarily going to be based on the talent that they have for the instrument they play. But you also want to think about people’s temperaments and situations. They may be the best drummer in the world. But if they work night shifts and have five kids to look after are they going to be able to put in the hours to make your dream become a reality?You also need to consider potential creative clashes. All bands are susceptible to them. When you bring talented people together, it’s only natural that there should be some kind of struggle for dominance. This often expresses itself in a conflict over directing what path the group should take.
The problems is that this can be a good groups downfall and cause an unhealable rift in the long term. Good bands rarely stay together forever – see Guns and Roses, The Eagles and The Clash as perfect examples.
Equipment
Of course, just having you and your chosen bandmates isn’t enough either. You need to have the right equipment and a way of transporting it to any gig that you get. That means someone needs a van, or you all need to learn how to pack up a mini really well.
Musicians often have their own instruments. But you will still need to raise money for speakers, pedals, and microphones that you require to play as a group.
Also if you need to use larger instruments like pianos and glockenspiels, it might be better to rent them, instead of buying. You can do this through companies that offer pay monthly piano hire. It could be safer to do this if you are not quite sure what the future of the band may be.
You will also need somewhere where you can regularly practice. A garage is fine. But you might want to consider renting some room time in a studio in winter.