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What are the benefits and disadvantages of being in a band?
I'm interested in being in a rock band, but when you're in a band you have to work as a team, instead of competing, what is it like. I'm senior in high school in the Bronx. This is something I want to be part time because I want to be an entrepreneur. I've been in a band before, and I play guitar. #music #arts #entertainment #band
5 answers
Jen Page
Jen’s Answer
Hi! I was in a band throughout college, and was in a different band part-time when I taught elementary school. You're right - being in a band is all about being a team player. I've seen many bands fall apart because of one person having a big ego. However, it's a really rewarding experience if you're willing to put in the work. Having lots of rehearsals are hard and time-consuming. Being on the road for a tour is not glamorous - you don't eat well, you don't sleep well, and it's easy to have a short temper because you're around the same people all the time.
That being said, the feeling of being on a stage and playing your part, knowing that it sound really, really good, is a feeling that I wouldn't trade for anything. So, I would recommend playing part-time - if you're interested in being an entrepreneur, definitely go to business school while you're working on your music on the side. That way, if being in a band isn't what you were hoping for, you always have a back-up plan. Plus, one thing about playing in a band is that you can't do it forever. Indie rockers in their 40s always seem washed up. You still want to have a life after you'd had your rock career.
SUSSY MAN IMPOSTOR
adadad
Rachel Johnson
Rachel’s Answer
I didn't know there were any disadvantages to being in a band.
Havilah Tower-Perkins
Havilah’s Answer
The good news is that being in a band and being an entrepreneur require similar traits, especially if you're the leader of the band. If you decide to be in a band, you'll likely gain:
- Leadership -- collaborating with others to create music requires skills to voice your opinion, take constructive feedback and learn how to evolve with a team
- Creativity -- it's one thing to be born with musical talent, but another to develop it -- the process of turning an idea into something tangible that your band then performs will grow your ability to develop creative ideas into something bigger
- Emotional IQ - the more you perform, the more you learn about yourself.. doing this with a band tends to increase the learnings.. about yourself and other people. Growing your emotional IQ increases your ability to connect with people
- Organization - nothing ramps up your organizational skills like being in a band, if you do it right. You have to hold regular practices, book ongoing shows, maintain social media accounts and your website to connect with fans, ensure you have all the details for your gigs,.. and somehow still create time to create new music (if you write your own songs).
As you can see, all of the above traits would equally benefit being an entrepreneur so it's a win-win if you truly have a passion for music and being in a band. Good luck! :) Havilah Tower
Yvonne Chen
Yvonne’s Answer
**Perks of Band Life:**
1. **Teamwork:** Bands are the epitome of cooperation. They offer a platform to hone your communication and teamwork skills.
2. **Artistic Expression:** Being part of a band gives you the freedom to unleash your musical creativity and explore diverse styles and melodies.
3. **Stage Presence:** Performing in a band opens up avenues for live performances, which can be thrilling and a great confidence booster.
4. **Connections:** You'll get the chance to rub shoulders with fellow musicians and industry insiders, broadening your circle in the music realm.
5. **Skill Enhancement:** Participating in a band can significantly boost your musical prowess and deepen your grasp of music theory and composition.
**Challenges of Band Life:**
1. **Disagreements:** Team dynamics can sometimes lead to clashes, varied viewpoints, and hurdles in decision-making.
2. **Dedication:** Band life often demands a substantial time investment for practice sessions, shows, and travel.
3. **Financial Hurdles:** Initial earnings might be modest and expenses for gear and travel can pile up.
4. **Reliance on Teammates:** The success of your band hinges on the dedication and talent of every member, which can be unpredictable.
5. **Juggling Priorities:** If you're interested in pursuits like entrepreneurship, striking a balance between your band and other commitments can be tough.
As a high school senior with plans to dabble in entrepreneurship part-time, you can certainly consider band life as a rewarding pastime. This way, you get to relish the joys of music and teamwork while still chasing your entrepreneurial dreams.
Remember, numerous successful musicians began their journey in bands while managing other careers or interests. Striking the right equilibrium is crucial, and being in a band can be a fantastic way to indulge your love for music.
Shruti Tandon
Shruti’s Answer
Benefits
1) You get to do what you are passionate about
2) You get to meet new people
3) You can make money from gigs
Disadvantages
1) Time commitment