Colorado Springs Musicians, Brian Guinn: Stepping out? At what point does a person take a step to tryout for a band? Seems like you hit a plateau with taking lessons, playing songs alone, or playing with friends but not really consistently. Just wanted to hear feedback and your experience. Will the first time be hard but that’s a step that has to be taken to get this level of growth? Probably a lot of situational questions. I began when I turned 52 and did not have a background in playing, just so you know a little about me.
Barbara Allen: Go to open jams. Kin folks has a few !! That’s how we found players
Ryan Rydon Ross: It never hurts to tryout with a group and see if you play well with them. You won’t always vibe with every musician, and that’s okay. Open mics are a good way to meet new people and I’d even try looking for a cover group too so you can play tunes you know and continue building your chops!
Edward Dennis: As soon as you understand your instrument and have a general idea of how music is arranged, do it! The hard part is finding people on the same page as you. Everyone has a different idea of what music is supposed to sound like.
Robert Kynor: Take the step right away. It’s so rewarding creating music no matter what! However the band atmosphere can certainly be a blast and musically one can sure grow with a band. I wish you all the best as you search for your tribe.
Jared Kuper: I agree. Jamming with friends/individuals is a great way to get your feet wet if possible. Another one is church bands. They can be a great intro to group and public performance. If you can play solo, definitely do a few open mic nights. But any of those steps, the instigator is: the address of trying something new sounds less than how much fun it could be!
Greg Renner: Depending on your preferred style of music, see if you can find a couple friends to jam with or go to an open mic jam and get through some of those experiences. If you’re not comfy on stage it will show in any try out you have. If you’ve done that and feel comfortable on stage, seek out bands that may be looking for what you offer.
Barb Dye: Just jump in! Even though you & the group you’re auditioning for may not click, you all will learn something. And the chances are pretty good that you’ll run into someone “looking for that band” or that band will run into someone “looking for you” and the references will be invaluable!
Aside note: From Derek Berg
Pedal Steel guitar available. I have been playing guitar for over 32 years, and pedal steel for about 2-3 years at this point. I would like to get out and play some gigs on the pedal steel. I am at a point with it where I can do fills and textures, no flashy solos but basics. Feel free to reach out to discuss further.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2324269713
Photo: Brian Guinn | From his Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=7361454130532076&set=pb.100000026874708.-2207520000&type=3
