What to wear for music in the rehearsal room
Short answer: A rehearsal room is often a small, warm space full of instruments, amplifiers and people. Choose clothing that gives you freedom to play, keeps you cool in the heat and does not rustle or catch on strings, pedals or cables.
Warm, small and soundproofed
Rehearsal rooms are soundproofed, and that often means poor ventilation. With four or five musicians, amps and lights, the room warms up fast. Light clothing that moves sweat away makes a long rehearsal evening more comfortable. Always bring a bottle of water, and air the room during breaks if you can.
Movement for your instrument
Drummers use both legs on the pedals and need freedom in the hips and knees. Guitarists and bass players often stand and move with the instrument. Close fitting training trousers or leggings allow movement without restriction and do not catch on pedals. See bamboo training trousers for women.
Shorts for drumming and heat
Drummers sit on a hard stool and work physically for an hour or more. Shorts are airy and give the knees freedom. Choose a length that does not ride up when you sit with your knees bent, and a soft waistband that does not press. See bamboo training shorts for women.
Leggings under skirts and dresses
Singers and keyboard players often wear a dress or skirt, even for rehearsal. Thin leggings underneath give warmth in a cold room in winter and calm comfort when you sit or move. See bamboo leggings for women. Leggings also work well under a long top on stage.
No noise from your clothes
For recordings and acoustic music, clothing can be heard. Rustling jackets, bracelets, buttons and zips that knock against the instrument can create noise on a recording. Soft, quiet fabrics are best. Empty your pockets of anything that might jingle as well.
Shoes and feet
Drummers often choose thin shoes with a flat sole that give a feel for the pedals. Other musicians stand for hours and need shoes with support. Bass players and guitarists with effects pedals need to press precisely, so clumpy boots are a poor choice.
Washing after rehearsal
Clothing from a warm rehearsal room should be washed after wearing. Viscose from bamboo is washed at 30 or 40 degrees and dried on a rack. Bring a spare T-shirt too, so you can change after rehearsal if you have sweated a lot. If you have hearing problems or ringing in your ears, talk to your doctor, and always wear ear protection in the rehearsal room.
Long evenings and gigs
Rehearsal evenings can last three or four hours, and before a gig they often run longer. Keep a small bag with a spare top, water, a snack and earplugs, so you are ready. A spare pair of socks is welcome too if you have been standing for a long time. For the gig itself you can choose stage clothes, but rehearse in them a few times first so you know they work with your instrument.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear in a rehearsal room
Light clothing that moves sweat away and allows free movement, plus shoes that suit your instrument.
What is best for drummers
Shorts or close fitting trousers and thin shoes with a flat sole that give a feel for the pedals.
Should I wear ear protection
Yes, ear protection is always recommended in a rehearsal room to protect your hearing.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
