I recently participated in a course of structured weekend workshops called the "Weekend Warriors" in Melbourne. Here in Victoria, these workshops are sponsored by Billy Hyde Music who do a fantastic job of coordinating these activities. These workshops are aimed at getting people back into playing music.

I signed up for Round 11 of the Weekend Warriors through the Billy Hyde Blackburn store not too sure what I was getting into — one thing I knew for sure was that having Bob Spencer (ex Skyhooks and The Angels) as our coach would make for some interesting learning. How right I was!!!! Bob's knowledge is unbelievable and the way he is able to convey his thoughts and ideas to other less experienced musicians is a real credit to him. I cannot speak highly enough of him with regards to my time spent learning over that 4 week period. I had a real blast!!!! - Thanks Bob!!!!

“The focus of the Weekend Warrior programme is to get people back out playing music again and enjoying themselves…”

I can highly recommend this to anyone who has ever wished to play in a band again to give it a go regardless of their level. If you can string 3 or 4 chords together then you will be able to do enough to get by and have fun. If you go in to this with an open mind willing to learn and stretch yourself then Bob will be happy to give you as much homework as you need to give it a real try — what do you have to lose?

The Weekend Warriors programme which was originally developed in the United States and Canada, started in Melbourne in 2003. The original Weekend Warrior organizers recognised that there are many people in their 30's, 40's and 50's who used to play music and may have had rock star dreams when they were young but gave up due to family and careers. They also noticed that many of these people were buying musical instruments again in their 30's. These "bedroom" musicians then formed bands with other similar musicians who they had previously never met, rehearsed over a 4-week period with a professional coach and then put on stage in a concert. Each band performs 5 - 7 songs in a 30 minute set.

For more information visit their official website here or if in Melbourne contact your closest Billy Hyde Music store for details.

	“… rehearsed over a 4-week period… and then put on stage in a concert…” “… The focus of the Weekend Warrior programme is to get people back out playing music again and enjoying themselves”
Myself and Bob Spencer having fun at the big gig!		Getting into the groove!