Trouble finding musicians

[chanson]

I'm a seventeen year old who has been playing music for over three years. I have never really been in a steady band and have been searching for musicians for about a year with no luck so far. It is getting depressing and I have no idea what to do.

[Bassguy61]

First off, don't give up. If you really love music, you'll regret it incredibly. As far as finding musicians, what have you tried so far? There are a lot of wise and experienced folks here (much wiser than me) that can help give you some ideas you may not have thought of. A few basics (if you've tried these, my apologies)... It seems a lot of folks have found musicians through Craigslist, although you'll probably have to weed thru some to get to the folks you want. Have you tired posting an add/flier at your local music store? Perhaps even an add in a local paper. Just a few ideas. I'm sure other will chime in with even better advice...

[MrLenny]

I got started hanging around the local music store.
Hang out, get to be known and keep going from there.

[pbagley]

I found two bands on hand written "Bass Player Wanted" ads on the local music store bullitin board. Pulled off a number, gave them a call, ended up playing in a band for a while. While neither of these were long running gigs, both were good experiences from a developing musicianship perspective. Both were originals projects, with a few covers thrown in, so a lot of vanity from the "leader" had to be delt with. People skills are important too, sometimes more important than the actual musician skills.

Keep looking, talk to people, get out to jam sessions when ever possible. It's all about building your network while you build your skills.

- Paul

[chroma601]

Check out craigslist for your area, as well as The Mode http://www.themode.com/

[chanson]

I've tried craigslist as well as word of mouth through school and friends.
I think a large part of it is the type of music I want to play (which is pretty much anything...funk, jazz, soul, folk, blues, etc.)

Most people my age only want to play mainstream rock garbage.

[winstonthecat]

It definitely takes time to find the right fit. Don't get discouraged.

Music stores are a great idea, as well as Craigslist. Just keep at it. Since you seem to have varied musical tastes, you might hook up with older musicians. If you do, just make sure you're prepared for auditions (know the songs, parts, etc...). Also, playing with slightly older musicians can be help bypass a lot of the teen drama (sorry for the ageism)

I did the reverse, hooking up with some guys in their late 20's for a cover band, where as I'm in my late 40's. If you like the same music, can play your instrument, and can get along with others, you should fit right in.