As the title says, at what point did you feel competent enough to join a band? I’ve been playing the guitar for almost 2 years now, and feel like I hit a bit of a plateau, and I’m thinking joining a band might help. At the same time, I don’t really feel like I am good enough to play with others.
I’d say go for it if you get the chance. Playing with other people is a game changer in your music journey. Then it’s not only focusing on your playing but also on what the others are playing, following the tempo, the dynamics…
Good enough is relative. Musicians of any skill level should be welcoming to jam together. If you’re made to feel inadequate that’s their own shortcoming, not yours. Joining a band should be a matter of finding other musicians in a similar place to you in their journey. Being in a band doesn’t ever have to mean playing concerts in front of people, either. If you feel that playing with other people is the next step in your journey, then it is.
Unless you’re trying to get into some kind of crazy prog/jazz band, ability is less important than attitude. If you put in effort, listen to feedback, and wrangle your ego a little you’ll do fine. And if everyone’s a jerk, that’s not the band for you.
edit: also, set up fast and help the drummer haul their shit in
I had been playing for 15 years or so before I joined a band. The trick is to not aim too high, make music that is a bit (but not too much) below your skill level. That way you are able to get the hang of songs relatively easy, which boosts your confidence. From there on you can keep growing.
How shite is the band? If its shite enough, you’re good enough lol.
Seriously tho, find you a jam situation if you can. For instance, bluegrass is a genre with a strong jam tradition. In my area there are public bluegrass jams where you can basically hang out and play rhythm, learn the tunes and watch other players. Usually there are enough people that there’s always someone else to watch on guitar. Bluegrass leads are heinously difficult but rhythm playing isn’t bad.
Some other folk genres that have jams: Irish, ‘old time’, gypsy jazz, regular jazz, blues, choro, cajun. Maybe there’s something in your area.
Playing in a band will make you a better musician. Most musicians’ first couple bands suck so don’t worry too much if you aren’t any good at first. Just focus on having fun and improving. Find some people near your skill level and enjoy
Trust me, you’re good enough. Somewhere out there, there’s a drummer who isn’t sure if they’re good enough, and a bass player, singer, etc. Find some like-minded musicians and see where it takes you. I’m not suggesting going thru craigslist and replying to everyone looking for “experienced shredder” or whatever, but there are people out there in the same situation you are.
There should be bands for any niveau, you can play in a band once you master about 3 chords imo :D Heavily depends on the band, so you have to find one that’s right for you. Happy searching!
Smells like teen spirit is basically 4 power chords.
So if you do it right you really don’t need to now much haha.