How to Streamline Rehearsals
Recently someone sent in this question:
Q: My rehearsals run WAY too long! What can I do? Between spending time with vocalists to pick out harmonies, electric guitar players figuring out parts, and drummers who have never listened to the songs, it’s taking 2 hours or more every week. I just don’t know what to do. Can you give me any advice?
A: Oh man! I’m sure that’s frustrating! But there are definitely some ways to tighten up your rehearsal times! Here’s what I’d start with:
Implement a Vocal Rehearsal
Set aside time just before or just after your regular rehearsal to go over any vocal parts that you aren’t 100% on. Then you won’t be stopping rehearsal in the middle for something that probably only applies to a couple people on the team.
2. Establish New Expectations
Establish an expectation that PRACTICE is what happens BEFORE rehearsal! That means that your band should come into rehearsal not only having heard the songs, but having picked out and practiced their parts. If everyone comes in prepared, then rehearsal becomes a place to put all the pieces together. This alone makes rehearsals much more efficient.
3. Establish an End Time
Put an end time on your rehearsal. That can be scary if you’re used going long and still feeling like you’re not ready for Sunday, but it’ll force you to stream line everything! If you know you have to be done at a specific time, then you’ll begin to filter out the things that you are spending too much time on!
To implement these ideas try this: This week, choose songs your band knows well. Then when you send out the set list, ask your team to come to rehearsal already prepared (that' will be easier since you chose songs they already know!) Then, at the beginning of your rehearsal, talk about these new ideas and expectations. Get their thoughts! Maybe your team has more ideas to make things better, faster, and more efficient! If you’re frustrated by long rehearsals, they probably are too. Let them help you change things!