How to start a Band

Starting a new band takes time, work, and focusing on fun!

When it comes to starting a new band there is no special ingredients that make it happen. It really takes some determination, some musical skill, and a desire to play music. Below you will find the steps, tips to have your own band.

Follow these steps & you will be in a band before you know it.

Find people to play with. The best people to start playing with are friends, family, & neighbors. Most musicians know at least one person to play with, but if not or you are new to an area, spread the word. You wil be suprised how many people play music. If you have a local music store, check to see if the have a board for posting such information on. Also, local coffee shops that have open mic nights is a good place to meet other musicians
Pick the musc genre. It is important to be fair to all band members & decide the type of music you want to play. It is important to stick to types of music you know, like, & are familiar with, as it helps make for a happy band & happy music.
Location, Location, Location! Nothing can end a band quicker then not having some where to play. If you are young, talk to all the parents, you may find their is a open garage that can be used. If the music isnt loud, then you may never have a issue, but if you play drums make sure to check with neighbors also. If all options fail you may check with a local music center or recording studio to rent space. Also, some storage units allow bands to practice during business hours if a unit is rented.
Play. This may seem obvious, but it needs to be said. Just start jaming together & see what transpires. You may find just the sound that can mnake the new band work, or you can find out the new band is really a new group of music students & needs to step back & learn the basics. In either case creating music of any kind is really the first step to having a band.
Write Music. Sure, you could be a cover band, get concerts & have lots of fun. But making a band & making music means writing music. It is a good way to get everyone more involved in the process of creating a band & can be lots of fun, as well as a good learning exercise for all musicians. It is important to remember too that you may need help on the specific parts for each instrument in the band.
Set aside time. Make time & schedule time to practice, talk about the band, & to relax together. The great bands are more than a group of musicians, they are friends. Be fair to everyone & schedule times that work. Most important, if you schedule time, do not flak on your band members & dont cancel the same day. Nothing can hurt a band more then a group that never practices & makes time for 'Band Stuff'.
Are you Ready? Once the band feels they are ready schedule a gig! Sometimes this can be difficult if you have never done a show before. there are some things that can be done if you are having trouble getting a gig:
1. Record a demo
2. Play at open mic nights
3. Play for friends at bbq's or house parties