A few months ago, when I first started high school, I was put into a beginning band class. I knew music before joining the band, so I thought I’d do well. But, unfortunately, playing in a band was even more difficult than I had imagined. Here are six things that I wish I had known before joining a band.
6 Tips for Beginners
1. Understand your counts
Counting keeps the band together. When you don’t count, you and your bandmates lose connection in music. This will make it sound like the band is playing two different pieces, or you and your bandmates could stop at different parts. Not counting or having the wrong counts will also confuse you causing you to stop playing or causing a bandmate to get thrown off.
2. Pay attention to dynamics
Dynamics bring out certain parts of the music. For example, it can bring out the melody or the bass. Dynamics can also convey emotion. For example, a sad, depressing feeling can be played as pianissimo, while a proud, triumphant feeling can be played in double forte. The music will sound plain and boring if you don’t play them. You won’t be able to distinguish the different sections of the music.
3. Pay attention to the conductor
Conductors tie the instruments together by giving each person a beat and each section with different dynamics. They can begin or end the music and control the dynamics in each section. They check the musicians once in a while to help them stay on beat and play the proper dynamics in each section.
4. Build a good relationship with your band mates
Having a good bond with your bandmates is essential since you will play with them. It’s hard to play with people you don’t like or don’t want to be near. You could end up constantly fighting, which could slow down your band’s growth. Playing with people you don’t like can also make playing in a band less enjoyable.
5. Don’t stop playing, even if you make a mistake
If you stop playing, you could throw off the whole band. Your bandmates might stop as well, thinking that the score is messed up. Also, not playing your part will make the music sound incomplete. You might have a part in the music that ties the other notes together. A great example is playing a chord with the rest of the band.
6. Be prepared
One way of preparing for a band is by practicing your music. As stated before, not playing your part will make the music sound incomplete. This can slow down the progress that the band is making. Even if the band could practice without you, you might have an important section in the music they can’t play without. Everyone has a part in a band, so make sure you understand yours.
I’ve only been in a band for around four months, but I don’t regret my decision to join, even with the bit of experience and the hardships. I hope to grow my knowledge and get better as a musician while playing with the band.
About the Author
Jen, one of our BUBOTS‘ students, is a 14-year-old Freshman based in the US. She enjoys digital art, sketching, playing the piano and flute, singing and ballet. She also loves to experiment in the kitchen. Someday, she’d like to be a certified accountant.