Auditions:Finding the right band and the right players…
January 28, 2008 at 09:32 PM
Auditions:Finding the right band and the right players…
So hopefully this article is informative to both beginners and intermediate musicians. It doesn’t matter how long you have played, at sometime you will find yourself auditioning for a band, or someone will audition for your band. There are many resources available to locate players. The Internet offers many outlets (like joegig) and networking sites to find players. Word of mouth or referrals, is always the best way to find a gig.
A key thing I will tell everyone is to sit down and make a list of things you are looking for. Ask yourself these questions:
-Are you looking strictly to make money?
-Are you looking for a situation to showcase original material you write?
-Do you want to play 5 nights a week or 5 nights a month?
-Are you looking just to jam with some buddies on the weekend in the garage?
-What style of music do you want to play?
-What s your experience level?
-What bands have you played in? How long did you play? Where did you play? Why did you leave?
-Are you willing to travel? If so, how much?
-What equipment do you own and what condition is it in?
All of the above questions will save everyone a lot of time in the long run. The above questions can also be asked for the potential band or player. When you audition, you are auditioning for them as well as they are auditioning for you. There is no reason for you to audition for an acoustic folk duo when you are looking to play in a Heavy Metal band.
Don’t get me wrong, many times people settle for certain situations, just for the opportunity to play. These situations tend to implode at some point in time.
Now you done your homework before you reply to an ad. You have looked at 100 ads. Of the 100, 15 seem to be of interest. Now with all of your info in your head or written down, lets make some calls. When calling always be yourself. Try to be confident. If at some point during the conversation you feel it may not be your thing, thank the person for their time and be honest and say it’s not what you’re looking for. Also, wish them well with their search. Never be rude, there is a very good chance you may run into these folks down the line. When speaking to someone that interests you, set up a time to audition. Find out what material you need to learn, Most of the time 3-5 songs will give enough of an idea of each others capabilities. Make sure you learn the material inside and out. Make sure to ask the key they do the songs in. Ask for a cd or some mp3’s. Find out in advance the location and time of the audition. Make sure your gear is in working condition. Be on time. If the audition goes well, and you feel like your interested, sit down and talk to the other guys and see if everyone is on the same page. If not pack of your gear and say thank you for your time. You may be asked for a second audition. I strongly suggest getting to know the guys in the band. In all of the years I have played music, I will tell you I will settle for a guy with a great personality, a good guy and a good musician over that of a total asshole who can play like nobody’s business. Remember if your in a band who plays a few times a week and/or travels, chances are you will spend more time with thee guys, then you spend with your family. Try riding around the country with a super-ego jerk. He will bring the whole thing down.
Happy Hunting!
-Johnny Rodriguez