Ruby St. - All Star FAQ

What level of experience is required to play?

ALL musicians have different levels of experience, training, and talent
The intent of this program is to have FUN PLAYING MUSIC, meet new people, and enjoy the experience of playing in front of an audience in a band format
This is not a competition or a talent show
Musicians are not required to read music
You should have enough experience with your instrument(s) to play through songs that you select for your Act
You should be willing and able to attempt to learn songs suggested by other members of your Act
You must be open to playing music with others that may be at, below, or above your current skill level, and willing to make this a fun experience for all

What types of music can we play?

What should I ask myself if I’m considering this?

What is the song selection process?

Song selection is no small task, many a band have collapsed under the weight and emotion of it. Gather musicians for your band that have similar interests, or that are really easy-going.

What is my end of the bargain?

How are rehearsals handled?

Rehearsals are up to each Act to coordinate amongst themselves
Space: Find space at a member's house
If you really can't find space, see Ruby Street for assistance
Gear: Everyone is assumed to have their own instruments
Beyond that, you need a small PA for vocals during rehearsal. See Ruby Street if you need to borrow one
In the event that there are musicians who span more than one act and are not on every song, arrange rehearsals such that these musicians only come to a portion of the rehearsals. Concentrate on those songs at that rehearsal, and other songs at the other rehearsals.

What equipment is provided at the Gig?

On gig night, the following equipment will be provided: drums, bass amp, microphones, mic stands
Musicians should bring their own guitars, pedal boards, guitar amps (max 2 per Act), keyboards, and any other instruments
PA system, speakers, monitors, lights, and soundman are provided for the gig

What’s the commitment level?

When you sign up, you’re committing to the gig and whatever rehearsals are required to pull the act together.
Learn your parts, and commit to working with your Act to make the songs sound as professional as possible (note, it doesn’t have to be studio quality!)
Commit to negotiating politely and adjusting your standards up or down to a level where the entire Act is comfortable

How do we pick the songs?

Every musician suggests the song they want. If the rest of the Act is comfortable with the skill level required to pull the song off, it’s in
Never substitute “I can’t play that song” for “I don’t like that song”, because they’re two different things
Be prepared to have a few suggestions… there must be more than one song that you’ve been wanting to play with a band!
Once every musician has a song in the setlist, work as a group to come up with the remainder of the 8 songs
With millions of songs available, the only hangups should be which good ones to choose

Will it be perfect?

No. Every time a group of musicians gets together to play music, the music will take on the personality of the individual musicians as well as the group as a whole. This may or may not be exactly how you hear the song on the radio or in your head. The All Star gigs are not aiming for perfection, but rather for a good experience for musicians and audience members. It’s just healthy to strap your guitar on, fire up the vocal chords, etc, join a band, and play. And, it’s most fun to do this out at a club with a crowd cheering you on!!!

So, are you ready to ROCK?? Join Us!!