Starting a band...

So you want to start a band, eh? Well luckily for you, the team at MusicHoundDog.com has created this general guide to help you on your way. If afterwards, you want more information, check out the rest of the Band Advice section, using the menu at the top of
the page.




Firstly, you’ll need band members. This is best done by word of mouth, but can also be done by putting up adverts on recording/rehearsal studio notice boards or anywhere where you think you’ll get interest.




So now you’ve got a list of people wanting to be in your band – but who’s right for it? You need to audition them. Auditioning is important for checking they have the talent and ability to play the instruments, but also because it gives you a chance to find people with similar personalities, people who you’ll be able to cope being on tour with for two weeks!
For the audition, you’ll probably need to book a rehearsal studio (see our rehearsal studios list for contacts)




Now, hopefully, your band is formed! Aim to start rehearsing twice weekly, either at each other’s houses or preferably in a rehearsal studio. Make sure you’re making progress and building up a play-list.




Once you’ve got a play-list of about 10 songs, (which are good enough to perform) you can start looking around for venues. Take a look at our venue list in the gig guide section for ideas and contacts. You can either book the venues yourself or get an agent to do it – at this stage, you’ll probably be best off doing it yourself.




Get gigging! After your first gig, you will have reached LEVEL 1 – Your 1st income source.

    Advice articles for bands:

    > Starting a band
    > Getting known
    > Recording
    > Going on tour
    > Features


    Useful links for bands:

    - Recording Studios
    - Rehearsal Studios
    - Band websites
    - Music Videos
    - Music Equipment
    - Promoters
    - Photographers
    - Transport
    - Agencies
    - Artwork
    - CD duplicators

    Musicians' Union:
   
    It's a good idea to join the
    Musicians' Union. Contact Bob
    Bennett, the District
    Organiser for the Midlands at:
   
    Benson House,
    Lombard Street,
    Birmingham,
    B12 0QN.
    t: 0121 622 3870
    f: 0121 622 5361
    Or go to
    www.musiciansunion.org.uk