Practising and rehearsingRehearsing with a pop or rock band

Performing well with other people puts additional demand on you. It is important that all the band members are aware of:

• the speed of the music (tempo)
• what each instrumentalist is playing or what each singer is singing
• what the structure of the music will be

Communication is a key factor in a band. Decide as a band how the music will begin, what happens in the middle of the piece (repeats, how many verses and choruses, etc) and how the music will end.

Points to consider

• Make sure you can play your part accurately - band rehearsals will be far more productive if you turn up fully prepared and able to play your part.
• Get to know the equipment you are using, how it works and how to assemble it.
• Make sure you have all the necessary equipment and check it is working, eg microphones, audio leads, amplifiers, etc.
• Check your instrument is in tune with the other band members.
• Before playing, agree on the tempo so that everyone plays their parts at the same time.
• Consider the balance carefully to avoid any one part standing out more than others. If using amplifiers and microphones, take some time to consider the audio levels required to create the required volume levels.
• Avoid rehearsing at full volume – make sure you can hear what you and your band members are playing/singing.