Band Leading Online Performances

In this unit we will consider the additional demands made on a band leader when working with their band in an online space. Some of these will be similar to when you are working face-to-face; other things will be different and need some planning for in advance.

Organising bands as a band leader has similar challenges whether working online or in person. Scheduling rehearsals, repertoire, equipment and organisation of rooms are equally important in a virtual environment. Here are some of the key points you need to consider, whatever technology you are using to communicate with your fellow musicians:

1. Ensure everyone has an appropriate technical set-up in order to participate. This is best checked in advance of scheduled sessions, otherwise you could end up with bored musicians waiting for a technical hitch to be solved or you could run out of time for the musical activities. In previous units we have explored what this setup should include and how these can link together.
2. Plan to have an alternative means of communication available should your initial choice of platform fail. So, for example, if you plan to use Jamkazam ensure that everyone also has access to a different messaging service in the event of Jamkazam not working.
3. Ensure all band members know how to share their screen with you either through the platform you are using or via an additional web-conferencing tool such as Skype or Zoom. Viewing a band member’s screen can be a quick way of checking and solving any problems with individual set-ups. Remember, Zoom has a screen sharing function within that is particularly useful for this activity.
4. Look out for typical technical issues such as performers forgetting to turn on microphones and cameras. Also, try to understand something of each of your band member’s instrumental set-up. Understanding their signal pathway from instrument into computer can help you quickly work through and troubleshoot their problem.
5. Finally, take control of the session to allow yourself overall control of what is streamed and recorded. For instance, as the meeting host within Zoom you can initiate video and audio settings and recordings.

Remember, Interface:Response has a team of mentors available to help you with all aspects of your work in this and related areas. Mentoring support is available free of charge within the UK.