Been a long time since you rocked & rolled?
WEEKEND WARRIORS - READING. YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT?
It’s about making music – for fun. It brings
together ‘lapsed’ musicians who want to
rediscover the joys of getting together in a band.
WHO IS IT FOR?
There are no fixed rules, but it will probably appeal to those aged 35 – 60 plus (you are never too old to rock – ask The Stones!) who once played in a band – or would have liked to. We are not looking for advanced playing skills, but neither is it a programme for complete beginners: you need some degree of competence on your chosen instrument.
WHO IS RUNNING IT?
The driving force behind the Weekend Warriors programme is the Music Industries Association. In the Thames Valley, the programme is a partnership between local music retailers Drumwright, Guitar Works and Hickies with rehearsal studios PlugnPlay.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The organisers ask prospective participants to provide information about themselves and their musical interests. Prospective participants will be invited to attend a launch night at PlugnPlay studios at 7.30pm (see dates above). Based on what you have told us about yourself and what you tell us on the night, we will attempt to group you into one of four bands. You will then meet once a week for four weeks for rehearsals, each lasting 2-3 hours, during which you will agree three or four numbers to work on, rehearse and polish. We will have experienced musicians on hand to help give you instruction and technical support and offer constructive feedback. At the end of four rehearsals, all four bands will come together to play a concert for family and friends. We then hope you will go on from strength to strength under your own steam!
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Attendance at the launch night is free. If you decide to commit to the programme, it will cost you £135 (payable by credit card, cash or guaranteed cheque) on the night. That covers the full cost of the four rehearsals, and the final concert plus use of equipment. Payments are not refundable.
WHAT DO I NEED TO PROVIDE?
Drum kits and ‘back line’ (amps, pa and mikes) will be provided. Drummers need to bring their own cymbals, and other players their own instruments. Come armed with ideas of some of the numbers you might like to rehearse.
WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE AN INSTRUMENT CURRENTLY?
Music retail staff will be on hand to advise on suitable options to purchase or hire.
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
Fill in the on-line form available and e-mail it back. Then just turn up at the launch night to find out more, and if you wish, sign up!
AM I GUARANTEED A PLACE ON THE NEXT PROGRAMME?
That depends entirely on demand – and the mix of players who sign up. We cannot guarantee a place, but if the demand is there, we will commit to rolling out a fresh programme 4 times a year.
Got a question? - email us
