MUSIC
How to form a band Bands. Everyone loves watching them and every musician wants to join or form a group at some point – especially young ones. The Sunshine Coast is home to a large population of emerging young artists. There is an exceptional pool of talent with opportunities such as the Eumundi School of Music, Debby Parson’s Circle of Sound events and the Hastings Street Association’s Busking program providing platforms for talent to be showcased and encouraged. So how does a young ‘muso’ who wants to form a band start this journey? For three years I’ve been managing and gigging with Ampersand, working out the music industry on the fly. We started our journey with humble busking in 2021, to receiving grants and playing at the Caloundra Music Festival in 2023, to this year releasing music. This is a decent standard of success for a young band. Upon reflection I’ve compiled a list of what has worked for Ampersand over the years in the hope fellow eager musicians may benefit. Step 1: Finding your people You might meet them at school, online or at an open mic event. The most important thing when looking for potential band members is building the bridges of friendship. This friendship should be founded on a mutual love of music, 24
however it needs to be clearly established from the beginning. A positive rapport and great relationship between band members is far more important than the music. This friendship will ensure the teamwork is natural and everyone contributes their best efforts. If the band works as a team and are loyal to each other the music will automatically become spectacular. A band that has a great friendship is also far more engaging to audiences as they pick-up on the joy and fun you’re having. The band team bond comes before the music, talent, gigs, money, song choice and creative direction. Step 2: Finding your sound Flexibility is the key here. Never approach building a band with a hard and unshakeable image of what sound you want to create as you will always be disappointed. It doesn’t matter if you primarily play jazz and your drummer plays rock – the fact you’ve built a team bond means you will be able to create your own new sound. To find your sound, practice the art of ‘jamming’. Choose songs that everyone likes and jam them together freely. Let every band member’s distinct style and influence flow. Within a few rehearsal sessions this will begin to coalesce into a unique fusion of genres and techniques. Avoid limiting yourselves to specific
