Renting a Practice Space for Your Band

If you just put a band together, you are thinking about putting a band together, or you are an old pro, you need some sort of practice space if you ever want to be good enough for anyone to want to listen to your music. Here are some simple tips for getting the most out of your practice space.

Look for larger spaces to share with other bands. If you want a large amount of space, look for a place that's already being rented out by another band or bands. You can split the costs of renting the space and ensure that you have a large enough space for practice. Just make sure you know which nights they're practicing so you don't interfere with them and they don't interfere with you.

Sharing a practice space also opens up the opportunity to network. The other band(s) may know of upcoming gigs, recording spaces, or local music venues you didn't know about. You might be able to book a show together and help each other advertise.

Other bands may also have equipment you could share; then they could also share the costs of the insurance needed to cover the equipment.

Find a place that is accessible for all band members. If you live in a big city, try to find a practice space that is easily accessible for all band members. It isn't exactly fair to expect one person to drive half an hour across the city just to get to practice if you can find a closer space. You want to satisfy band members as much as you can if you want them to stick around long enough to enjoy success as a group.

Determine if the cost of renting the space is worth it. If you only have the intentions of playing for fun or playing minimal gigs, you may decide the costs of renting a practice space are not worth it. If it is too expensive, look in to other options. You can even consider setting up shop at a band member's house (as long as it won't drive that person's significant other, family, or neighbors crazy).

Get insurance for the equipment, not the building. Many people make the mistake of insuring the building by adding coverage to current policies they hold. This is a mistake. If you are renting a professional building, the owners should already carry insurance for it. What you should do is buy insurance for your actual equipment, such as instruments, amplifiers, microphones, and mixers. Not only will the equipment be covered while it sits in the practice space, but also when you set it up at shows. This insurance can be as low as $100 per year and will cover up to $6000 worth of equipment.

Make sure you find a secure building to rent. Make sure the building looks safe, secure, has good locks, etc. If possible, rent a space that requires a key to even get in the main building.

Make sure the building has an adequate power supply. When you've spent decent money on decent instruments and equipment, you should also make sure you don't have everything electrical plugged in to one single wall outlet. Make sure you can plug everything in effectively to avoid shorting anything out.

These are just a few simple tips to help you get the most out of your practice space. If none of these options works for you, you can always go back to playing in your mom's basement or garage. Rock on!