Band Tips 1 - Be a team player. Sometimes we can focus on our own playing a little too much and we forget that a band is made up of a unit that must all work together. Be sure to play tastefully and leave space for the other band members to do their thing.

Band Tips 2 - How to get gigs: Be proactive in finding a gig. Look in newspapers, search online databases, post on music store bulletin boards, check with your local talent agency. Here are some ideas:

• Classified ads – check your local newspaper, music papers, internet classifieds, etc.
• Bulletin boards – music stores, record shops, drum shops, talent agencies, usually have boards.
• Live bands – network! Go out, meet, and interact with live bands. This is one of the best ways to learn about who’s looking for who.
• Talent agencies – get to know the people who work in talent agencies. They can sometimes help you find a suitable band or at the very least, pass the word along that you're looking for players.
• Musicians union – The Musician’s union is a great place to find work. Great contacts can be made as well. Numerous pro musicians get valuable contacts and work through the union.
• Music studios – Stay in touch with the musicians behind the scenes at recording studios. They are recording all your friends are usually on top of what's going on.
• Jam sessions – Jam sessions are a bit more popular in larger towns, but when you can find them, they are valuable music networking havens! You'll meet tons of musicians there.
  

Band Tips 3 - Practice, Practice, Practice! - This tip can not be overstated. Your band will only be as good ad what you put into it. Take the time to rehearse. Schedule rehearsals weekly so everyone will be prepared.

Band Tips 4 - Don't forget about showmanship. You can have the best group of musicians in the world, in the best band, but if you collectively look like a bump on a log, the crowd may not like you. Work on moving around, enjoying yourselves, and getting the crowd involved.

Band Tips 5 - You must have a mailing list. The best way to ensure that people come out to see your band is to contact them ahead of time via your mailing list and invite them out. Be sure to ask them to bring a friend or two.

Band Tips 6 - Be true to your word. Many musicians will book a gig and then sub it out when another gig comes along that pays better. While this is a common practice, it's not advisable. Ultimately you want to give your band members a sense of commitment and loyalty. If they have this, they will work harder to keep you busy.

Band Tips 7 - Original material. Ah yes, we all want to play it. But don't forget your audience. They don't always want to hear it! Be sure that they can relate to you first and foremost. Create a healthy balance by giving them some covers. Then work in your originals gradually. As they come to know and like your songs, you'll have the opportunity to play even more of them.

Band Tips 8- If you ever mess up than don't try to go back and fix what you messed up on, just go off from where you messed up and maybe no one will notice! -Xarumy

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