This is a pretty exemplary of an ideal listing. (Screencap via sonicbids.com)
Sonicbids' new musician tools make it easier than ever to find members for your band. If you want to attract the right players, though, you've got to do your part. How you craft your band opening post is the defining factor in the kinds of applications you'll get.
A clear explanation of what you're looking for is paramount, and it's easy to forget some of the details you should include to really convey the ideal member. Follow this guide to shape or double-check your listing.
1. What kind of sound are you going for?
Describe your sound the best you can, but also include MP3s or links for examples. If you're open to directional shifts, mention it. You don't want to shut out potentially great applicants with strict limits about your style if you're actually flexible about it.
2. What level of commitment are you expecting?
How many times does your band rehearse each week or month? How regularly do you book (or hope to book) shows? Are you planning on touring? You should consider not only the upfront investments in time, but also the long run. If you're all in it for the long haul, you should relate to potential members that they should be, too.
3. What skill level is required?
Some bands are open to fledgling musicians, while others are on a level where someone just starting out wouldn't be able to keep up. Others fall somewhere in the middle where an average skill set is fine. Especially if you're a group on either extreme, make the general ability you'll need from a new member clear.
4. Where does the band stand career wise?
Include details about the band's releases, tours, and anything else that gives insight into your history. Some people only want to join a brand-new band, while others are happy to fall in line with one that's already established.
5. Where is the band headed?
What are the band's goals? Recording? Touring? Or are you all going with the flow, just having fun and letting things happen as they may? Define what's ahead for the band as clearly as you can to be sure you attract applicants who will be enthusiastically on board.
Ready to find your next musical partner? Start searching now, or log in to post your own band opening!
Jhoni Jackson is an Atlanta-bred music journalist currently based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she juggles owning a venue called Club 77, freelance writing and, of course, going to the beach as often as possible.
