by Rudy Rico

Created on: August 17, 2010

Tips on playing live music as a band.

One of the greatest experiences for a musician is playing live for an audience. Live music moves people. The band should look like they are enjoying themselves. An audience can tell when the members of the band are having a good time.

 One good habit to get into is to always give yourself and the entire band plenty of time to set-up. Every band member should test their equipment at least a day before the gig.

When the sound isn’t right, the whole night could be ruined. Make sure your guitar is always properly tuned. Having your guitar plugged into a tuner at all times is the best way to go. And always make sure you have extra strings for your guitar.

 Some bands use a checklist to make sure they don’t forget what they need.

Every guitarist should have at least one back-up guitar in case something goes wrong.

Once you’re set up and ready to start playing, start with a song that is very easy to play.

Maybe the first few songs should be easy. This helps build confidence with all the band members. This helps me because I’m always a little nervous when I first start playing.

Make sure everyone has a copy of the song list. Try not to waste too much time in between songs. Don’t ask each other what to do next.

Keep in mind that the band is a team. Whatever you do, don’t compete with one another. Competing with one another takes away from the bands energy as a whole.  The band has to know that they are there for the audience. Their music is a gift to the audience. When you’re playing, you’re playing for the audience. Your music can make them feel good. Your music can take some people to a happy time in their life; it can bring back a fond memory. Your music can touch their souls in a meaningful way.

I like to make it a point to please the audience. I choose the most attractive songs I can find. If at all possible, play songs that people request.

Playing in a band is a great experience. Sharing your gift of music with an audience is a worthwhile calling. Making beautiful music for a listening audience is like serving great food at a restaurant. The audience will pick up on your love of music, so serve it with pride.    

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