How to Form a Garage Band
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Congratulations on deciding to form a band! There are few things that can bring an aspiring musician the level of enjoyment and maturity like playing with a group. Many garage bands are formed with lofty aspirations for rock stardom, and while that may be shooting a bit high, the reality is that most bands, through rehearsal and hard work, become good enough to play gigs. If your band is even moderately good, playing local venues can amount to mini-rock star status among friends and locales, which, if nothing else, is a lot of fun, and a bit of an ego booster.
There are a few key things to consider when forming a garage band:
Style of Music
First you must decide what style of music you're interested in playing so that you can recruit the right band-mates. For most people, especially if you're young, you tend to run in circles with those who share similar musical interests. If so, this issue usually works itself out pretty easily. Rock, Pop, or Blues are very typical choices.
Players
Assuming you've worked out the style of music, the next thing you need to do is make sure you've got players. If, for instance, you want a basic 4-piece rock band, you'll need a lead vocalist, a guitarist, a bassist, and a drummer. Popular variations include multiple guitarists and / or the addition of a keyboardist. In addition it's helpful if some of the musicians can sing backup. The best bands sing great harmonies, even in hard-rock. If you're having difficulty recruiting for some of the spots in your band try placing ads in local music publications and posting on the billboards of local music shops, clubs and rehearsal studios.
Space
One of the key things every garage band needs is, you guessed it, a garage. While rehearsal space can obviously be something other than a garage (eg basement, bedroom, etc.) it needs to be large enough to accommodate all of the equipment and in a place that'll tolerate the racket. Once the band gains traction and becomes a bit more steady, soundproofing your space is a wise decision as it will make your neighbors and family happy and increase the hours you can play. If you are financially capable, renting rehearsal space in a studio is your best bet. The space is designed for playing, including soundproofing, and all of the basic equipment, like PA system, guitar amps and drum kits are typically provided. Paying for studio time also brings more focus to the band as they feel they're on the clock and want to make the most of their money.
Chemistry
Last but certainly not least, a great garage band needs chemistry. Recognizing chemistry takes time and patience. Sometimes bands with great musical chemistry do not get on well personally and vice versa; of course utopia would be to have both. Being in a band is like most other relationships in life, and chemistry will absolutely be a determining factor in your success and happiness as a group, like it or not.
Being in a band can be the source of incredible fun and growth for a musician. Work hard at your craft and have fun with it!
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