How to Help Your Teen Start Their Own Band!
One thing that a lot of teenagers seem to have in common is that they love to play music. But what can you do to help if your teen suddenly decides that they want to start their own music band? This article will point out some suggestions that parents could try as well as a few suggestions for the teens as well.
The first thing that you can do is buy some used instruments for your child. You could even suggest to your teen that their friends ask their parents to do the same. You should be able to find used instruments at your local instrument store, or you can visit a few garage sales. If you are having a difficult time finding a particular instrument than you can put an advertisement in the paper. If you choose to do this make sure that you include a price with the advertisement?
This may be a good idea to let the other kids and parents know that it will be alright for them to hold practice sessions at your house. It would definitely be in your best interest to let them use the garage if you have one or maybe the basement. The one thing you do not want them to do is practice outside of the house, since this may cause some unwanted problems with the neighbors. Another helpful suggestion for parents is to let them run the band themselves.
All you need to do as a parent to show your support is help to purchase a few used items for them and provide the space. Then the best thing for you to do is just butt out and let them do what they want.
Now a few suggestions for the teens who want to start their own band. The first thing that you need to recognize is that becoming a band is really a lot easier said than done. So you need to expect a lot of hard work. Don’t expect your group to sound professional right from the start. Even if you all are the best at what your do. Remember playing by yourself and playing with a large group of people can become very difficult. You will need to listen carefully to each other, and learn to read your other band members.
If you are going to have a good band then you will need to learn the importance of teamwork. One thing that you will want to be on the look out for is someone trying to out play the other. This can actually begin to cause problems within the group. There should not be one person who shines or stands out from everyone else. After you have formed your band and have been practicing for several months then you could start playing at small events like your classmates parties. In order to make your band known it may be a good idea to invest some money into making a demo.
Don’t rely on your parents for this, but instead think of ways that your band can raise the money yourselves. This is also another way that you can make yourself known around the neighborhood. One final thought is to try not to be all about the money. Make your rates small at first and then invest the money you earn into the band. You could even ask one of your parents to open up an account for your band. IF you do open an account make sure that one of your parents who is responsible is put in charge of keeping watch over the funds. This way no one member will be able to take out any money unless everyone is present.
