Everybody starts to learn an instrument with a vision or goal in mind. You might think about impressing your friends by performing a song to them soon, but when is the right time to jump into a band and start performing?
After 4 to 6 months of practicing and learning your instrument is the ideal time to take your journey to the next level and join a band. During the starting period, you should learn the basics of music and practice to improve the coordination of your instrument.
Types of Bands to join as a Beginner
There’s a variety of places to start searching if you don’t already have a potential opportunity in mind. Many people are driven by an opportunity to get started, having a certain vision in mind. My biggest tip is to start somewhere where you will feel comfortable to still grow and make mistakes.
Starting in a church band offers a settled environment where one feels appreciated. The music can be adjusted to your playing level and you can still look at the chords on music sheets during the performance. The stages usually have decent sound.
Joining the school band if you are under 18 is an opportunity that you should not allow to pass by. Every piece of experience you can collect while you are in your youth is worth gold. Practicing with friends and jamming songs together gives you exposure to various styles and ideas.
Check for Facebook groups in your town. This has brought plenty of people together to get started. There are many people on your level that is looking for exposure and the chance to collaborate and learn.
Another good way is to visit your local music schools or music teachers. There are always people that need beginner musicians to practice together.
Overcoming self-doubt
Struggling with confidence at this stage is normal. It is overcoming it that will make you feel strong. It is important to know that you are at a beginner level, but nothing can’t be practiced and corrected during your out-of-the-band room practice.
I had many band practice sessions where I felt out of my depth and I struggled with my instrument. I used the following steps to master the song:
- Take a step back. Take the evening off and rest. Breathe and remember why you started.
- The next day or the following, try the riff or song again. Stick to the root notes and keep it easy.
- Slow it down and use your own pace to practice the song or riff. The break does wonders, and it’s as if your fingers come back to the party to deliver the expected performance. Especially playing at your pace and in your comfort zone really helps in making the needed adjustments.
- You’ll be surprised when you realize what you are capable of.
- Get back to practice feeling motivated and ready to show what you can. Even if you stick to root notes for now, that’s all you need to get the job done.
Everybody started somewhere and everyone was once a beginner. It is the beginner in you that determines the expert later. There’s always someone starting after you. You should keep working on your skills to carry on improving.
Until later, Rock On!