My first far-reaching band (actually treated it like a business and played away from home for extended periods) was back when I was in HS, starting in the eleventh grade. Our ages went from 17 (myself), 22,25,32 and 33. They guy who came to see me (and drove about two hours to do so) wasn't bothered by my age. I wasn't old enough to legally be in a bar falling two years short but I looked "of age" with a big build and full beard. His attitude was that age didn't matter and ability wasn't as important as attitude. About a year before I left, he actually hired a new keyboard player who was also 17. This kid was a prodigy who played in a band with his family, keys with one hand and bass with another on a synth. Mind you, he looked his age and was relegated to staying on stage during breaks. Also, he needed a guardian to sign docs that would allow him to gig in licensed establishments. That was over twenty five years ago and I am still in contact with all of these guys and still gig with a couple of them from time to time. Ability and knowledge can be worked with, attitude can be adjusted - owner of said attitude willing. Thanks to this guy taking a chance on me, I had a good tenure in the band, got to see a lot of places I wouldn't have otherwise and made life long friends with some great folks. Do I look for people in my age group to play with? Sure I do, who doesn't?. But at the same time, if a younger person wanted to join in and there was a space to fill, why not? Someone gave me a shot young I think it's my duty to return the favour should the chance arrive. That being said, I do see ads for bands where age is mentioned. Looking for someone in the - age range. I understand younger people (or even the older crowd) wanting to "do their thing" within their own age bracket. I may be able to pick-up on newer tunes but I know for a fact my heart wouldn't be in a lot of it.
For some people, the hang is better with bandmates closer to their own age.
