Requirements for Joining Rock Band League

*updated 11/3/2022

Overall Requirements

Must be at least 10 years of age at start of the season.

Must have 2+ years experience playing primary instrument. If under 2 years of experience, registrant must submit an audition video for review.

 All newcomers must submit audition video for placement.

Requirements by Instrument

Drums

1. Must have understanding of correct sticking technique
2. Must understand quarter notes, 8th notes, 16th notes, etc. 
3. Must have basic ability in limb separation; able to confidently play the kick drum, 4. snare, and cymbals both separate, and in unison. 
4. Must be able to play in time consistently. 
5. Must have basic understanding and demonstrated ability to play simple beats
6. Demonstrated ability to play ‘fills’ in between measures of backbeats when necessary

Sample Songs: (If your child can play any of these songs fluently, they are likely ready for RBL.)

• We Will Rock You
• Back In Black
• 7 Nation Army
• Beat It

Rhythm Guitar

1. Must know how to tune a guitar
2. Must know all open chords including Major and minor (Em, E, Am, A, F, C, G, D, Dm) 
3. Must be fluent with transitions between chords (no pausing to find the next chord)
4. Must be capable of playing strumming patterns to fit a song.
5. Must be able to play in time 
6. Must be able to play along to a chord chart and/or tablature and/or sheet music

Sample Songs: (If your child can play any of these songs fluently, they are likely ready for RBL.)

• Take It Easy
• Sweet Melissa
• Free Fallin
• Blitzkreig Bop

Lead Guitar

In addition to the Rhythm Guitar requirements above:

1. Must be able to play a Major and minor scale in at least one position/shape
2. Must know how to read a chord chart and/or tablature and/or sheet music
3. Must be able to play barre chords
4. Must be able to demonstrate an ability to play a solo

Sample Songs: (If your child can play any of these songs fluently, they are likely ready for RBL.)

• Crazy Train Intro
• Sweet Child of Mine Intro
• Solo from Let It Be
• You Shook Me All Night Long
• Carry On My Wayward Son
• Can’t Stop (Red Hot Chili Peppers)

Bass

1. Must know how to tune a bass
2. Must know how to read and play along to a chord chart and/or tablature and/or sheet music
3. Must demonstrate ability in either picking or finger technique
4. Must be able to locate and play any note a coach may call out during practice
5. Must be able to play a Major scale in at least one position

Sample Songs: (If your child can play any of these songs fluently, they are likely ready for RBL.)

• Another Bites The Dust
• Money

Voice

1. Must demonstrate ability to match pitch consistently
2. Must have a basic understanding of one’s own vocal range
3. Must be able to produce a pleasant tone
4. Must be able to sing in time
5. Must be able to memorize lyrics

Piano/Keys

1. Must be able to play all Major and minor chords
2. Must be fluent when switching between chords
3. Must be able to read and play along to a chord chart and/or sheet music
4. Must be able to arpeggiate any chord (break it up and play notes one at a time)
5. Demonstrated ability to utilize both the left and right hand when playing piano
6. Knowledge of when and how to use the sustain pedal

Sample Songs:

• Don’t Stop Believing
• Clocks (Coldplay)
• Let It Be