This topic is as old and complicated as humanity itself, so you can't hope to solve every problem that can arise. However, there are a few fundamental things you can do to help your band work better. Here are three important things to think about and discuss with your prospective band members.
Discuss And Air Your Musical Projects
It goes without saying that a band needs a common musical project to satisfy all its members. Often though this is neglected in the rush to get started. Before engaging in a band take some time to think about what you want out of it. Encourage other players you might play with to do the same.
Before you decide upon your band take time to discuss your objectives and wants with the other members. Think about the kind of music you want to play, whether you want to play concerts or not, become professional or just have some fun?
Of course sometimes you will learn at this stage that a band is not right for you, or for another member. Although this might slow the starting of the band a little it is better to discover it at the beginning than further down the road. You can always find another band, or another musician.
Define The Rules Of The Game
It might seem obvious to you, and to the other band members, how the band is going to work. But different players might have very different ideas about how a band operates. That's why it's a good idea to discuss how your band is going to operate.
The aim of your discussion should be to agree upon a set of basic rules that everyone knows. Hidden, unknown rules caused by failure to discuss is a common cause of misunderstanding and conflict. So take a little time to let everyone share their view of how the band operates and agree on simple rules.
You don't need to define anything very complicated, but you should think about and agree how your band handles the following things:
- How do you choose the songs the band plays?
- What is your practice schedule?
- Who will organize and pay for rehearsal rooms?
- How will you organize concerts and pay for band equipment?
- What is the general decision making process?
By discussing and answering a few simple questions you can avoid many misunderstandings and conflicts.
Meet Regularly Outside Rehearsals
Your band will already be off to a good start if you ensure you have some common objectives and have agreed roughly how your operates. But things don't end there, people issues in your band will change and evolve with time. That's why it's a good idea to set up a regular time to review and discuss the band's progress.
It's best to make dedicated time for this activity outside of rehearsals. Find yourselves a relaxed place where you can share opinions and feelings about the way the band is going. If you find there are disagreements or problems starting this gives you an opportunity to discuss them and find solutions before they become too big.
The dynamics in a band, like in any human group, are a complex and changing thing. If you want your band to be enjoyable and continue playing successfully remember to spend time addressing the people issues, and not just thinking about the music.
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Ismail Mohd is the creator of Virtual Rock Band where musicians can meet bassists, drummers, guitarists and vocalists living near them. They can also upload or download instrumental tracks to jam along to.
