I have been playing in bands for over 14 years now. Anytime the band I was in had to look for musicians first we would try our pool of friends...much easier to play with someone you've known for a while.

But lately we have had a good deal of luck going through the internet. There is a site that's local to where I live where you can post for free your musical interests, styles, personality, etc. And belive it or not it has worked out quite well.

This is my personal opinion based on my experiences with bands. When I am looking for a musician obviously skill is important....but you know what it's not top on my list. I would rather be playing with someone who has less playing ability but has some other important qualities such as:

*Similar musical likes
*Punctuality - show up for practice on time....doesn't make you sit around and wait for an hour.
*Enthusiastic about what you are playing

For example I have been in situations where we had a top notch musician...but the guy was always late or you could tell he really wasn't into what you were doing.....kind of just going through the motions you know.

Then I have played with guys that had skill but maybe had to work a little harder or practice a bit more....but they were on time....friendly....enjoyed what they were doing....etc.

So again in my opinion best is not always better.

Making music should be enjoyable and you should enjoy the people you are playing with...makes for a better time....trust me.

That's my 2 cents.

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A bird in the hand will shit on your wrist!