Starting a band can be an intimidating project on the surface. It seems like something that might take years of hard work to do. But all you really need is a little bit of skill and a healthy dose of motivation and you can do it! Here are is a step-by-step process on how to start your own band FAST!
For the sake of keeping this piece short and to the point - let's assume you either play an instrument or sing. So you're looking for band members to surround yourself with, rehearsal space and gigs.
STEP 1 - Finding band members.
The most seamless way to find band members is to simply post ads on craigslist, or any other local industry magazines (in Los Angeles there is http://www.musicconnection.com/ and http://www.recycler.com/) These are all free publications. Post ads at least several times per week and find like minded musicians! If you can't find 4 or 5 people for your band - start with two. A duo or trio can be a great way to get off the ground in the beginning.
STEP 2 - Auditions
Let's say for now you don't have a rehearsal space or your own music studio to 'crank up the volume'. Go ahead and start auditioning unplugged in your home or apartment. This means playing super low volume together so that you can get a sense for what people do live. You'll want to select one of your original songs for them to audition or a cover song or two. Pick the best musicians for your style and sound!
STEP 3 - Song Selection
Choose 3-5 songs to rehearse with your new band. Try to choose songs that are already written and recorded or cover songs - so that you can hand out copies for the other band members to work on at home. Remember - rehearsal is not meant to learn these songs . . . It's meant to work through the songs as a group - that you've already learned at home individually!
STEP 4 - Rehearsal
Too often musicians get caught up in the mindset that they must rent out Madison Square Garden to rehearse for a show when it can be done on a much smaller scale. Start out by rehearsing at home at a very low volume. Have the drummer use brushes and turn off the snare drum, or use alternate drum equipment with mesh heads to that you're not loud. If you're still too loud or can't control your drummer, book a 90 minute rehearsal once per week at a local rehearsal studio and have everyone pitch in to cover the cost. Going rate should be $15-$25 per hour at most local studios - depending on where you live. Other alternatives for rehearsal include: your drummers garage, your base players attic, your guitarists church, your uncles basement: get creative and see what opportunities are right in front of you!
STEP 5 - The Gig
Check with your local clubs to book a show. Tell them you'll bring all of your friends and give an accurate count of how many people you can bring. Here's one thing to know about clubs; they are primarily concerned with how many people you can bring through the door! The great thing about this is if you are able to really promote the show to your friends and family you can create your own following which can help you get great gigs! The other thing to check out are "open mic" shows. These are shows where a series of musicians play 1-3 songs as a way of getting themself out there. You usually do not have to book this show as they will often have a sign up sheet at the gig and you just show up and play. If you perform well and BRING PEOPLE the club will book you for a regular gig oftentimes. In case you haven't been reading - the key is to bring people out to see your band. This ensures that you will get more opportunities to perform. Good luck and keep rockin'!
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