5 Ways to Keep Your Band Together

Keeping a band together can be a hassle. The first couple of months and years usually go well for most bands but somewhere down the line tension arises and threatens to dismantle the band. Many bands are worth saving because its members usually become much more than musical counterparts. They become good friends and family. No one wants to see their friendship and family dissipate over tension. If you are in a band or starting one and worry about your band breaking up then you should read the advice below on how to keep your band together.

1. Each band member's schedule should be examined and band practice should be planned accordingly. Many bands part because the members' schedules clash and get in the way of band practice. Band practice is essential to any forming band but band member's lives can not be put on hold. This is true especially if some of the members work, attend school, have children, or have frequent doctor appointments to attend. It may not be possible for the band to practice the same day and same set of hours every week. So band members should go over their schedules together every week to determine when, where, and for how long practice should be.

2. The band initiator should hang out with each member of the band separately and then have each member hang out with one another separately. Bands grow apart because the members grow apart. Some members become more close to other members in the band which can cause the remaining members to feel jealous and left out. Each member should spend time with one another so that they get a chance to bond; get to know one another, and to catch up on what is going on in each other's life.

3. Band members should respect feelings and thoughts of one another. This may sound cheesy but it is a crucial step to keeping a band together. People in general will have differing opinions and some may feel very passionate about these opinions and in effect will lash out at those who challenge their thoughts. A good debate is always warranted but one that reaches insult and spiteful talk should be avoided and banned in the band.

4. If you are the band initiator you are most likely the one who has most of the control over the direction of the band's sound. Consider letting band members have considerable say when it comes to brainstorming, arranging and creating songs. Often times certain members of the band get tired of their sound and want to branch out and try a new sound or they dislike the new direction the band is heading in. When these members are told no or to deal with the band's change they become bitter and feel as though their creative abilities are limited. They will feel as though they are suffocating and will eventually remove themselves from the band. As a band leader it is a good idea to consider everyone's thoughts.

5. Allow other members to have side projects don't discourage them. It is understandable that as a band initiator you want members to stay within the band because it shows a sense of loyalty. It is never a good idea to discourage members from playing outside of the band. Members who express interest in side projects just want to feed their creativity. It does not mean that they want to leave their original band although this can happen. Members with side projects may be able to bring a fresh sound and enthusiasm to their original band.