Band classes
Three kinds of band class
Every band rehearses for 90 minutes a week with a coach, in a band of up to six players. You move up when your band is ready, not on a clock.
First band
For players who have never been in a band, or have not played in years. A coach hears you play, and we put together players at a similar level.
No band needed to start
Songs you know, chosen with your coach
Counting in and finishing together
Returning band
For a band that has played a season and wants another. Keep your coach and players, or let us mix the lineup.
A new set each season
Writing a part of your own
Watching each other for cues and endings
Show band
For players who like a longer set. The band plays a full night at the showcase and helps first bands find their feet.
A longer set for the hall
Songs you know and songs you write
Welcoming new players into the lineup
A rehearsal night
What happens in the hall
Players arrive fifteen minutes early to set up, and the coach starts with a warm-up everyone can play. Then the band works on its songs for the season, a few bars at a time, and the last ten minutes are for playing one all the way through.
A warm-up the whole band plays together
Songs worked a few bars at a time
One song played all the way through to finish
A plan for the week, so you know what to practice
Instruments and voices
Who plays in a band
A band is whoever turns up with an instrument or a voice. We balance each one so that every part can be heard.
Guitar
Acoustic or electric. Bring your own and ask your coach before you buy another.
Bass
Electric or upright, from a first note to a steady line under the band.
Drums
The hall has a house drum kit, so you can start without owning one.
Keys
Keyboards and an upright piano are in the hall, set up for each rehearsal.
Voice
Lead and harmony singers are welcome, and every singer has a microphone.
Horns and strings
Brass, reeds and strings are welcome. Tell us what you play, and we will find a band for it.
Come in
Rather hear a band first?
Come to a class and sit in on a rehearsal for your level.