How to Find Dedicated Musicians

Whether you're an amateur or a professional, if you're serious about your music, you'll want to team up with people who are equally dedicated to their art and are willing to make a long-term commitment. Here are some tips on how to find them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bass Instruments
• Drum Sets
• Music Stands
• Musical Instruments
• Sheet Music
• Music Magazines
• Internet Access

1. Go to jam sessions where musicians meet and exchange notes. Talk to some of the musicians and find out how much time and energy they spend on their music. You'll soon find out how enthusiastic they are about what they're doing.

2. Be clear about what level of professionalism and commitment you're expecting.

3. Explain what musical styles and levels you're looking for.

4. Talk about how much time you expect your band members to commit to your project.

5. Explain that you want to perform your music for money at some point. This is usually a great incentive, although you'll find that truly dedicated musicians will play any chance they get.

6. Place an ad in the music section of your local paper that includes terms like "dedicated" or "only serious musicians need apply."

7. Read the musicians' market sections in music magazines, and run an ad in the musicians wanted section.

8. Look at the bulletin boards of music schools and colleges for musicians advertising their services. It's usually safe to assume that people who study music are more dedicated to it than the average person.

9. Search the Web. Visit the Musicians Websearch Classifieds site (see musicians-classifieds.com).

10. Schedule an audition for your musicians to find out not only how skilled they are, but also how enthusiastic they are.

11. Make it clear that you expect your band or orchestra members to be present for every rehearsal.

12. Make it clear that more than two unexcused absences from rehearsals will result in dismissal, and follow up on it. After a few weeks, you'll be left with those really dedicated folks who will stick with you no matter how rough it gets.

on 11/22/2005 It is also a good idea to get to know your possible band members before you get serious. ... That way, you can get a better idea of just how dedicated they are and how much you can trust them.