Bandcoaching

Entry requirements: This course is designed for both existing bands and musicians who want to start a new band. Together, we explore how your band can grow, both musically and organisationally.

Music is at the centre of everything: playing together, timing, interaction, and finding your own sound. At the same time, we also look at practical aspects such as rehearsing, performing, and presenting yourselves as a band. If you already have a clear direction, that’s great — but it’s not necessary. We’ll discover your goals and opportunities along the way.

Working with your own repertoire (or new material), we’ll naturally run into things to improve, which we address together in a collaborative way, always tailored to your band. Over the course of 7 weeks, you’ll work towards a short live performance of around 20 minutes at the Parnassos Café, for friends and family. There’s nothing like experiencing live what works and what doesn’t.

The concert can optionally be recorded using a multitrack setup, giving you a professionally mixed audio recording. A video recording with this audio can also be arranged for an additional fee.

Applications

We are looking for existing bands that want to improve, expand their sound, or simply add new material to their repertoire. The music can range from pop, jazz, and classical to anything in between.

• One person per band registers as the main contact. There is space for a maximum of 7 band members in our drum studio. (If your band is larger, please contact Parnassos before signing up.)
• At registration, you can upload one document as proof of eligibility for a discount (student, staff, alumni, etc.) for all band members. Please note that only one file can be uploaded, so make sure to combine all documents into a single PDF or JPG.
• Bands receive a 50% student discount (rate group 1) if at least 70% of the members are students (see terms: https://parnassos.uu.nl/en/price-categories/).
• Bands receive a 25% discount (rate group 2) if at least 70% of the members are UU staff or alumni (see terms: https://parnassos.uu.nl/en/price-categories/).

What you’ll learn

• Improved band interaction and ensemble playing
• Development of organisational skills, such as planning rehearsals and performances
• Expansion of your repertoire
• Working towards a live performance at the Parnassos Café

About the teacher

Herman Onnen is an enthusiastic musician, guitarist, and studio engineer. He studied at the Hilversum Conservatory and is currently active with his own jazz fusion band MINT JAMS, as well as various commercial orchestras.

In his studio, Studio Boslust, he works with musicians to develop ideas into fully realised productions ready for Spotify and other streaming platforms. From recording and arranging to mixing and production, Herman helps artists bring their musical vision to life.

Working with people and music is at the heart of what he does.