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Post by JohnH on Sept 28, 2007 16:02:01 GMT -5
I just wanted to tell you about something I’ve been into these last few weeks. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had without having to put my guitar down. I’ve been playing (with) guitars since I was 16, but the last 25 years opportunities to break out and play with others were sparse indeed, and my playing ability is basic. I joined a program called ’Weekend Warriors’. www.weekendwarriors.org.au/This is for those aged 30 to 65 (or more or less), who never played in bands or want to get back into it. At each location, it is centered on a music store, and in Sydney, it is run by Allans. The program is in several Australian cities, and originated in the UK and the US. What happens is that you show up on day one and have a jam to some classic tunes. There’s no expectation of brilliance, three chords with trainwrecks is OK at this stage. Then you are assigned to bands; guitars bass, drums etc. Over about 4 weeks, a series of rehearsals are arranged, with coaching with a professional musician. Then there’s a gig! The store provides all the gear – amps, mikes, drums PA etc, and guitars and effects too if needed. Allans were absolutely excellent and very supportive and generous in helping us. So we did our gig last weekend, and it was a total blast!. Each of 5 bands did a 30 minute set, and in my one, we covered a huge range from Beach-Boys, ACDC to Garbage. We got it together and people were up and dancing. Í met some great people – and together we stepped way out of our comfort zone. It was as much fun as rewiring a 4P6T rotary switch (hey, I like wiring switches). OK, actually it was alot more fun than that! Cheers John
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Post by ux4484 on Sept 29, 2007 9:36:19 GMT -5
That's very cool John, I'd love to see/do something like that here in "The City". The great thing is when it's over it CAN be over, or you could continue if you found the right mix, or even try again! A real win-win setup.
How much time did you have to spend in all (on average per week) through the whole process?
With the Mrs. and I on different shifts and taking care of the kids, time is at a premium, though a place to practice and equipment takes most of the sting out of time involvement.
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Post by JohnH on Sept 29, 2007 17:01:54 GMT -5
The rehearsals with pro coaching were four sessions of two hours each, over four weeks. But we also we able to use the gear and space for extra rehearsals, which we did for another 2 or 3 hours each week. Allans Music were super generous in letting us do that - and we really needed it! Plus there was lots of home time listening and practicing.
Internet technology alsoplayed a big part, downloadable lyrics and tab, GuitarPro, YouTube, MP3s and a bulletin board that we set up for our band helped us a lot.
John
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Post by jkemmery on Sept 29, 2007 18:50:24 GMT -5
Do you know the link to a similar program in the USA? I tried to search for it, but only found a NAMM site for NAMM members.
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Post by JohnH on Sept 29, 2007 20:55:47 GMT -5
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