It started simply with just a few people playing for their own enjoyment, but things have changed. We now get asked to play gigs all over the place (who knew that would happen!).

With live gigs come responsibilities. We are responsible for the reputation of the band and for putting on the best show we can. As individuals we are responsible to our fellow band members not to waste the hard work we are all putting in.

Here are guidelines for Windsor Ukulele Band members who want to play live performances in front of an audience.

1. We are first and foremost a ukulele band. It is fun to bring other instruments to tuesday rehearsals but we should remember who we are.

2. Bring your uke (obviously) but also as a minimum, a stand and access to music (a tablet is the usual choice). Don’t rely on others to bring them for you.

3. Please put in some practice at home. Tuesdays are for rehearsals, not for lessons or practice.

4. The soundcheck is a part of the gig. Typically this happens an hour before the gig proper, but in some instances may be even earlier than that. We sometimes have to adjust the setlist, and individual performer’s parts at the soundcheck itself. Therefore, If you cannot commit to the soundcheck, please don’t commit to the gig.

5. The same generally goes for the Tuesday rehearsal before the gig. Again, this is because last minute changes such as set list, who sings what and whether solos are in or out are often made on those Tuesdays.

6. Sometimes the real world gets in our way and we arrive late to gigs. If the soundcheck has already happened then to be fair to your bandmates, you can still join in but only unamplified, unmiked and not standing in a location that messes with the staging setup.

7. If you arrive after the gig has started, please don’t try and join in. Just sit and enjoy the show with the rest of the audience. Take some photos or videos and cheer wildly after every song.

8. (Jamie’s Law) Above all, when you are on stage remember to look up occasionally, enjoy the moment and SMILE.

Chris – July 2025