A music band can be made up from as little as three people comprised of 3 singers, 3 guitarists, 2 singers & 1 guitarist, or any other combination for that matter. Usually though, a band will have a minimum of 4 or 5 members; traditionally made up of a singer, drummer, 1 or 2 guitarists, and another person on the keyboard/piano.
Bands with more than 5 members can run in to various problems, that you should be aware of, if you're thinking of starting such a band. Once problem is that you are often limited to what venues you can play. The majority of smaller venues are only geared up for a traditional 4-5-member band, which will be no good to you if you band is 10 members strong. If you are expect to make money as a band, you’ll have to consider that any money you are paid will have to be divided-up amongst all members.
In addition, when forming the band, you’ll need to ensure that every band member is of like-minded personalities, in order for them to get on well as a team. You don’t want to put in the time and financial investment forming your band, only to have personality clashes result in it’s premature break-up.
The purchase of professional musical equipment will be one of your biggest financial investments. In addition to musical instruments, which most band members will already own, you’ll also need a decent PA system. The PA system is an electronic amplification system made up of a mixer, amplifier, and speakers. ‘PA’ stands for Public Address. Some refer to the PA system as an SR system. ‘SR’ stands for Sound Reinforcement. The terms are fairly interchangeable, although some in the music industry relate SR systems more for outdoor performances, and PA systems for indoor performances.
Another important decision that you’ll need to make is - do you want to be represented by a band manager? Most in the music industry agree that a band doesn’t require a band manager, unless the effort involved in running the business aspect of the band, threatens the bands ability to produce music. Getting a band publicist might be the better option if you’re just seeking assistance with advertising and other public relations type work.
Bands with more than 5 members can run in to various problems, that you should be aware of, if you're thinking of starting such a band. Once problem is that you are often limited to what venues you can play. The majority of smaller venues are only geared up for a traditional 4-5-member band, which will be no good to you if you band is 10 members strong. If you are expect to make money as a band, you’ll have to consider that any money you are paid will have to be divided-up amongst all members.
In addition, when forming the band, you’ll need to ensure that every band member is of like-minded personalities, in order for them to get on well as a team. You don’t want to put in the time and financial investment forming your band, only to have personality clashes result in it’s premature break-up.
The purchase of professional musical equipment will be one of your biggest financial investments. In addition to musical instruments, which most band members will already own, you’ll also need a decent PA system. The PA system is an electronic amplification system made up of a mixer, amplifier, and speakers. ‘PA’ stands for Public Address. Some refer to the PA system as an SR system. ‘SR’ stands for Sound Reinforcement. The terms are fairly interchangeable, although some in the music industry relate SR systems more for outdoor performances, and PA systems for indoor performances.
Another important decision that you’ll need to make is - do you want to be represented by a band manager? Most in the music industry agree that a band doesn’t require a band manager, unless the effort involved in running the business aspect of the band, threatens the bands ability to produce music. Getting a band publicist might be the better option if you’re just seeking assistance with advertising and other public relations type work.