Entry Level
Students must have some basic ability on their chosen instrument and although it is not essential to be able to read music some awareness of notation would be helpful.
Individual tuition to beginners cannot be offered and potential students would be advised to join the guitar course to learn the basics.

Aims of the class
The course aims to give a grounding in the technical and musical requirements of playing in a band. This involves playing songs from the popular repertoire of the past forty years and covers many different styles from Blues, Soul, Rock & Pop. The technical aspects of setting up amplification and mixing are dealt with in addition to matters of electrical safety.

There are performance opportunities in various locations, which will give the students experience in setting appropriate sound levels and choice of repertoire.

It is hoped that the group will record some of their material in a bona fide studio sometime in the future but any additional costs will have to be borne by the students.

Vocals: Some ability is expected although enthusiasm is more important. Students must be willing to have a go and be open to singing songs that might not necessarily be in their favoured style.

Guitar: Students must have their own instrument and amplifier if possible. Knowledge of basic chord progressions and tablature would also be an advantage.

Bass Guitar: Students must own their own instrument and amplifier. Knowledge of the notes on the neck and some familiarity of bass line construction is vital.

Drums: A drum kit is available but students must bring their own sticks. Knowledge of some basic drum patterns for Blues, Soul, Rock & Pop would be an advantage. Absolute beginners would be advised to have lessons before enrolling.

Keyboards: Students will need their own keyboard or synthesizer with either a built in or separate amplifier. A basic knowledge of chords and some reading skills would be an advantage.

Front Line Brass, Strings etc: The course would welcome students to form an instrumental team to back songs and any instrument would be welcome. We would need notice, however, so that sufficient music could be custom arranged.