Make time to Play!

You are not alone.  Just pick a band and make time to play again. 

Remember all those things that made being in the band great in high school?  The joy of finding others who shared your talents and interests...making friends...performing....Band Trips...Band Camp?  Why give all that up just because you've grown up?  

Community Concert Bands give adults the chance to play again...to perform again...to go on Band Trips again...and even go to Band Camp again...all while making a whole new group of friends, overcoming new challenges, and rediscovering talents you almost forgotten you had.  Many bands have members that range in age from as young as 14 (talented high school students are usually welcome - just check with the band) to those who continue to play well into their 80s or even later.


Regardless of whether you have not picked up an instrument since high school or you studied music in college, there is a community ensemble not far from you that will fit you perfectly.  All you have to do is pick a band and play!

Not sure where to start?  It really is as simple as 1...2..3...

1. Equipment.  
• Instrument:  Most community groups expect their members to supply and maintain their own instruments.  Some may be able to supply larger instruments like tympani and other percussion instruments.  What if you do not have an instrument and are not sure you want to invest in one yet?  No Problem!  Many music stores have monthly rental programs for band instruments and several offer rent to own options.  Remember, you do not need a professional quality instrument to get started.  
• Music Stand:  You really do not need the biggest and fanciest stand going.  Remember that you will likely have to carry that stand to practice each week so look for ones that fold or disassemble easily and are not too heavy.  You can always treat yourself to the big, fancy one later.
2. Research the bands in your area:
• Figure out how far you are willing to travel each week and look for bands within that distance.  
• Is there more then one band in your area?  If so, check each one out to see which might be a better fit.
• Visit the band's  website.  Are there FAQs, audio clips, video clips, or photos? 
• Do they have a "New Members" or "Join Us" section?  If so, what is their admission policy?  Some bands require an audition and some just ask that you show up regularly.  Some bands teach beginners and some expect you to be able to play and sight read at a certain level.  
• If possible, go to a performance and talk to some band members. 
• Did you like the music they played?  
• Do they seem happy to be there? Are they friendly? 
3. Pick a band and contact them. Then go to your first rehearsal. 

Okay, one more thing...Do not be too hard on yourself if you have trouble keeping up at first...just keep practicing. Enjoy yourself! 

CC