Q. Why is it important for a band member to rehearse
on a regular basis?
A. A player of an instrument should strive to play to
perfection. If band members do not rehearse regularly they will not be able to
play at there full potential which not only hurts there performance as an
individual but also the whole band. For example if a member has not put in
enough time and effort they may struggle to play the song properly and possibly
miss their cues causing others to get confused and end up ruining the dynamic
of the set piece. Also if a member does not rehearse it shows a lack of
motivation and enthusiasm, which will most likely cause future issues.
Q. Why is it important for members to help each other
with things such as set-up/down and rehearsals?
A. If a lot of time is spent on set-up/down then the
equipment will become more familiar. It is necessary for a person playing in a
band to know how to use the hardware and software around them. A member of a
band should also be there for other people, to help if needed with any and all
issues. This shows that they are supportive and not just there for there own
benefits. You can’t have a band with one member! Also if a member acts this way
they will gain respect within the band and they will become be a tighter unit
and be able to play without tension.
Q. Is it essential that the members work well as a
team?
A. Yes, if a band is not getting along it can put
strain on recording sessions and performances and prevent them from playing as
well as they can. Also if members are not getting along then they won’t give
others constructive criticism. Constructive criticism is essential because if
there is a problem or a habit that a particular person doesn’t notice it won’t
be resolved unless pointed out.
Q. How important is it for band members to keep their
instruments in good condition?
A. It is one of the most important things a member of
a band should do. If an instrument is not in good working condition then it
won’t sound the way it’s supposed to. And that will ruin whichever song is
being played.
Roles and responsibilities of members in musical ensembles
Every member of a musical
ensemble must be able to look after their equipment and make any adjustments to
ensure the best sound possible is obtained. As well as this they must be able
to keep in time with other members and be able to join song at any point just
by going with another music performer. Ultimately everyone in a band relies on
the other members to introduce them into the song and to keep time and rhythm.
In most bands there will be a
drummer, vocalist, lead guitarist and a bass guitarist. A drummer’s
responsibility is to provide a rhythm for the rest of the band, they must be
able to listen to all other members to ensure they start and stop at the
correct times. As well as keeping their equipment in check they must also
ensure that any recording equipment around their kit (if used) is functioning
properly and in optimal position so the desired sound is achieved.
The lead guitarists
responsibilities are to provide a melody that fits with the tempo and style of
the drummer and bass player, they also need to be able to play solo’s that tend
to be the highlight of a song. A solo is an improvisation of the current song
be played they are used to intensify a section of a song so as to give the
listener more entertainment. They must also attend to there own guitar by
checking it and ensuring all the strings are in good condition and everything
else is in working order.
A bass guitarist is another
member that contributes to keeping tempo and rhythm they provide a bass line
for other members to play along with. Although it’s not as common as lead
guitarist they also perform solo’s to create a more enjoyable experience for
the listener. Along with the lead guitarist they are in charge of the well
being of their equipment.
A vocalist is often referred to
as the “the front man”, this means they are responsible for the image of the
band and that they act as a spokesperson to promote the band and participate in
interviews. As well as everyone else they must ensure there equipment is in
working order and everything is set up correctly and in place.
Aside from the ensemble members themselves, there are other
people that tend to be involved with a band. A manager is in charge of booking
gigs and looking after the band and their interests. This includes booking
hotels, venues and over all ensuring the band and its aspirations are being
fulfilled.
Every member of the band should
partake in rehearsal before they perform. This will ensure all members are
warmed up and ready to perform as best they can. To sum up, a band can not be
successful unless everyone evolved is working properly and to there full
potential.
