Getting a group of musicians together in order to jam out some songs for the fun of it is relatively straightforward. However, starting a successful function band is nowhere near as easy. It can lead to many complications and pitfalls, which can leave many talented musicians clueless. In this blog, we look at the five steps to putting together a professional band…
Unlike a standard pub cover band (who may still charge a couple of hundred pounds for an evening’s entertainment!) clients booking a function band will expect a night of utmost professionalism, both in the performance and in the way musicians behave off the stage.
This seems fair considering the average function band costs the best part of £1000 to hire for an evening’s entertainment, often more.
The first thing a fledgling band needs to realise is that the underlying key to successful initial bookings is this professionalism.
It’s vital that musicians understand that a high-end corporate client is under the impression they are hiring unconditional entertainment for the evening.
It may sound a little harsh, but they probably do not care if an amplifier does not work properly, if the singer loses their voice or if the van breaks down – they are paying to get a job done.
If they are paying money for a service, they (acts of god aside) will expect it delivered accordingly. These are problems that, as paid professional musicians, must be taken responsibility for.
As such, it is important to surround yourself with professional bandmates, not just in their musicianship, but also in their attitude.
Preparing as much as possible for those initial bookings will give you a fighting chance of encountering less issues.
Step 1: Choose the right band members
As previously alluded to, the importance of picking band mates cannot be overstated. It’s tempting to go all in with a virtuosic musician, without asking many further questions.
However, you are not just picking a colleague – music is, in many ways, a lifestyle. As such, it’s important to remember you’re picking someone who you’ll (hopefully!) be sharing a lot of time with; playing, traveling, setting up gear and even sharing hotel rooms with.
Some potential things to think about when auditioning new members:
- What is their personal situation? Can they commit to a lot of time on the road, as well as performing an rehearsing?
- Are they easy to be around, with a good sense of humour?
- What does their work ethic seem to be like?
Setting these points aside, you’ll now be looking at what instrument/instruments they play, and how well. Finding a suitable, versatile singer is vital, but can also be one of the hardest aspects of putting together a function band.
When auditioning, it’s important that any or all existing members agree on what type of voice they are looking for. Singers could potentially be asked back to audition more than once, or perhaps to a rehearsal so band members can gauge how well the singer fits in the band.
It’s a good idea to try and source as many band members as possible who can, at the very least, sing a bit of back-up.
Not only do rich harmonies add to your sound (potentially even being crucial, depending on the style of music!) but anyone who can take some of the vocal work, even if it’s for just a few numbers, will help reduce the pressure on the lead singer’s voice.
If you are aiming to do night after night of gigs, this must be considered.
While the voice is arguably the most unique instrument there is, this is a system that should really be applied, no matter what kind of vocalist or instrumentalist you are looking for.
It’s often the case that musicians will choose others they have played with before to join a band. Whilst this is obviously preferable, it’s important that all members agree for the band to be heading in the same direction.
If you’re struggling to find professional members, take a look around the Last Minute Musicians directory of solo musicians and search by area.
Step 2: Source the right gear
Once you have all the members of your group together, it’s time to look at the equipment situation.
As a rule, each member should probably be expected to supply the gear they require for their respective instruments. However, if you are starting a truly collaborative group from scratch, there is some communal equipment that you’ll probably need and all have to chip in for. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Versatile PA system
- Professional lighting set up
- Van/ transport solution
If you’re looking to be gigging soon (and often) then reliability should be a big factor on your choice of equipment. For this reason, you might well choose to source brand new gear from a reputable dealer, with a warranty.
If this is the case, make sure you double check the sales they often have on at stores.
However, if you’re look to source a lot of gear in one go, then smaller independent music retailers may be able to give you a discount price on a bulk buy.
If you’re budget is limited, then you can try sourcing gear from second-hand groups like UK Music Gear Exchange. However, be careful to check over whatever you are buying thoroughly.
For more advice, check out our blog on buying and selling online.
Step 3: Choose a style of music and a suitable set list
For a party band, it’s important to have a varied repertoire that will appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Pick a range of tunes that are popular, and you can read our summary of over 2500 band’s set lists for inspiration if needed, as well as our blog on how to write a great set list.
It’s also important to keep updating the setlist to keep it fresh. Many bands offer clients the option to suggest up to three unique songs they wish the band to perform.
Not only is this a great way of ensuring every show is unique, but also adds more songs onto the band’s repertoire as you go.
If you love one particular style of music or one particular artist, then there is also nothing to stop you starting a themed band like a Motown act or a tribute band.
Step 4: Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse!
As professional musicians, it’s crucial that the band rehearses. Not only practicing new songs, but also adapting well known songs to your bands style or coming up with new and interesting arrangements.
There are some bands, formed of highly-skilled musicians, that rarely (or never) rehearse. Generally, they will have been around for a while and be so established that they know the material so well they could do it blind folded.
However, there is always room for improvement, especially when coming up with new arrangements of classic tunes.
Adding elements of improvisation, perhaps for a solo or an opportunity for the bandleader to get the audience involved will show the client that a band is able to provide something much more exciting than a standard wedding DJ.
A worthwhile rehearsal will also allow a band to work through a set list that flows one song into another, leaving appropriate gaps for audience communication and performing songs with emotional highs and lows.
It’s always a good idea to road test your set list, so maybe try booking some pub shows or other low-key gigs as a try out.
Step 5: Promote, promote, promote!
You’ve got your line up, and the set list is slick and well rehearsed. What do you do now? Book some gigs, of course!
Promoting your band is essential to booking shows. This can come in many forms, both online and in person.
First things first – you’ll need some good promo material. Get a photoshoot organised, some good demo recordings made, and preferably a really good promotional video for your band.
You can then begin to hit up booking agents, facebook groups and the Last Minute Musicians entertainment directory!
Some resources for promoting your band
- Why promotional videos are important for musicians
- How to make an effective showreel
- 60 quick tips for promoting your band
Do you have any tips for starting a covers or function band? Let us know in the comments below!
