(This article is geared toward a younger audience but the principals apply at whatever age you would like to start a Band. I know players in their teens through players in their fifties that are still playing and have used these same principals)

Last week we looked at:
* Lots of work
* Finding a Space to Rehearse
* Practice makes perfect

Make sure you have read Part One first:
http://www.guitarsite.com/newsletters/010416/11.shtml

Discuss each player's commitment:
How long and often are the guys in the band willing to rehearse? How often would they like to play out? How will you split up any monies received? How long do you want the Band to last? How far do you want to go? What type of music do you want to play? This takes time, so set aside some time to discuss these things and then once a month ask the band members once again how are things going? Get to know the people you play with, go to lunch with them and spend time with them outside of music, this helps build a bond. Friendships are more important than music. If the band or music ever get in the way of friendship be willing to compromise. Remember that we all have to make decisions in life and if music is your sole source of income and one of your players has decided to embark on a life of drugs and partying and is missing gigs, then you have got to make a band decision. This is not necessarily a friendship decision. Even though it may affect your immediate friendship you have got to move on. Commitment drives people to success. Maintain your commitment and try your best to help each band member maintain his.

Find a Place to Play Out:
This is always the most exciting part of being in a band. Playing somewhere like a party or a talent search is fun and helps the group to have something to strive and focus on. Early on in my career I can remember the excitement of playing at talent shows and parties. With each step you gain experience. After playing parties and talent shows we moved up to playing Clubs and local Festivals. I finally got to the point in my career where I shared the stage with Mega Talent like the Isley Brothers and Patti Labelle. I have actually played inside Prisons (Rahway State Correctional/New Jersey) all because I had committed to the principals listed above and was willing to play wherever we had a good opportunity. Music agents are willing to find places for your group to play for a small percentage usually around ten percent of the gross earnings. Go to clubs yourself with a tape and some pictures. Ask Club owners if you cam play one night for their club for free (this will normally get you in the door) and once they hear you and like the band they make offer some future bookings. Let all your friends know that you have a band, it's the easiest way to get a "gig".

Never Give Up!
If you want Fun and maybe one day Fame and Fortune it is there for the person who:

1) Is dedicated to working hard.

2) Practices to polish his Talent.

3) Commits himself/herself to accomplishing a goal.

4) Never Gives up!

5) Puts friendship first and acknowledges the source of his talent (God).

May you live long and prosper in your musical career! : - ]

This article was written by David Laracuente a member of the Band "Feedback", find more articles at Feedbacklive.net. If you have any questions or would like to contact Dave directly please send your inquiry to dave@feedbacklive.net.

Part one was last week:
http://www.guitarsite.com/newsletters/010416/11.shtml