http://www.myspace.com/stagehandsmusic
Marco Pandza of dramatic rock ensemble, Stagehands, connects with Breakthrough Band to share some insights into starting a band as they are carving their own niche in the music industry.
Breakthrough Band: How would you describe your music?
Marco: Stagehands plays Broadway Rock. The music tells a story, the band members play the characters, and the music is a combination of Queen, Green Day, and the Nightmare Before Christmas. We take elements of Broadway musicals and combine them with eclectic rock and pop music to create a different kind of show.
BB: How do you produce your music?
M: We're always thinking of new melodies and arrangements, but because of the nature of our band, we don't get to use all of them. We try to think of interesting scenes, stories, and characters and then match various ideas to the songs we're writing to see what fits, and if it works, we develop it until it works. Eventually, the chaos leads to a coherent storyline, but a really crazy mix of songs. We stay excited by trying new things, writing in new styles, and trying to do the least obvious thing when we're writing, whether it be chord progressions, harmonies, transitions or melody. There's no science or formula to it except that every song has to have its own identity - no two songs we write are allowed to sound anything alike.
BB: As a new artist, what was the biggest challenge that you have had to overcome?
M: There are a million bands out there, so trying to find a way to reach people through all the noise is every band's challenge. Finding your audience and gaining momentum are a challenge, but we try to be creative about how we perform and present ourselves. We're working on a system to reward fans for sharing our album, and we're also performing at a theatre festival so we can reach an audience outside of the regular rock club circle.
BB: What is your favorite social networking or media web site and why?
M: Youtube - endless wasted hours, lots of bonding of stupid videos, the ability to interact with a community and the freedom to create interesting stuff that anyone out there can see. Being an indie band was a lot harder when artists didn't have that kind of freedom. I just wish there wasn't so much junk on Youtube.
BB: What advice do you have for others who are looking to start a band or market their music?
M: No more Strokes wannabes - please! Draw inspiration from your influences, but find your own voice. Stay in the basement until the melodies are amazing! Be as creative as you possibly can. Don't be afraid to divide people with your music - when you appeal to everyone, you appeal to noone. That's why Nickelback has less fans then a pickle on Facebook. Be GREAT. Good is mediocre - there's lots of average out there. Be great and you won't stay secret for long. Most importantly - be ambitious, be artistic, and connect with your fans. Get your music into as many hands as possible first, and build a community. Worry about the money later. Stop worrying about getting signed, most new media divisions at labels are run by people who know less about Twitter then you do. Good luck!
Check out Stagehands’ Music here:
"Bringing Broadway to Rock and Roll!"
www.stagehandsmusic.com
http://www.myspace.com/stagehandsmusic
http://www.youtube.com/user/stagehandsmusic
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