Despite having played live a decent number of times I have never been part of a band. Always been charity events where we’ve quickly put a band together, learnt three or four songs, and done our slot. Or open mics where, again, learn three or four simple songs, perform them, and sit down again.
Recently I’ve auditioned for a proper permanent group and, to my surprise, actually got through. Wow, this is a whole new jar of tadpoles isn’t it? Need to learn about forty or fifty songs to some degree of competence plus some BVs. Plus the investment in things like mic stands, spare bits’n’bods, etc that were often provided before. More time, effort, and spending out than I’d ever realised. Loving it though. It’s given me a lot more respect for you guys that get out there performing week after week - I don’t know what I was expecting but this whole band thing is more consuming than I’d thought it was going to be.
I play guitar because I enjoy it rather than because I’m any good at it
Comments
Grow a thick skin.. and just turn a blind eye to any human / inter-personal silliness. It is rarely the music making that grinds the gears in bands… just observe the band crap.
Have a great time. +1 on thick skin, let it wash over you like water over over stones....
It's hard work, people WILL hack you off, they'll be late nights, rehearsals and times when you want to jack it all in.
There will also be many many times when it's a sheer delight to be out there playing and using gear for what was its original intended purpose. Especially true of valve amps !
Best of luck HAL9000.
My ethos is to simply enjoy - not to worry about what everyone is complaining about - and to just get on with it.
Best of luck!
Enjoy!
Rehearsals have certainly made me aware of a certain sloppiness in my phrasing. Fortunately(?) rehearsals are being recorded so I’ve been able to listen back to what I’m doing well, what I’m doing badly, and to hopefully improve.
Nil Satis Nisi Optimum
Part of the skill of being a cover band guitarist is figuring out which parts to drop or keep - as well as fill out the sound if for instance you only have drums and bass with you.
Good luck with it mate.