How to...

When HYPeR was open, we welcomed two or three bands to play on Fridays; 'Bring your guitars & bass, cymbals and sticks - we supply almost everything else. If in doubt ask, or read the small print!'

We urged bands to tell everyone about their event; it was the best way to make sure they had a full house and maximised earnings.

The small print

We offer teenage bands the opportunity to play on the Hyper stage every Friday night. If you would like to book please read this section carefully before contacting the Manager at Hyper.

How many bands can play? Two or three per evening. You need at least two bands ready to play before you book.

What type of music can we play? All types. We just ask that there is no swearing, or racist or anti-religious content in the lyrics. We may ask for a printout of the lyrics beforehand - just to make sure!

What equipment do we need? Bring all your own instruments; we have microphones and stands. You may bring a radio mic if you have one.

Due to our sound level restrictions, don't bring your amplifiers. We have a bass and three other guitar amps. If you have pedals, please check that there are spare sockets on our amps for these.

Please don't bring your drum kit. You can bring your own cymbals and a double pedal, your sticks and a seat if you wish.

Bring spare strings, your own plectrum, a tuner, and spare leads with you.

How loud can we play? We have a decibel limit - checked by meter - of 100. The venue is a 'hard' one. This means that there are no soft furnishings, carpeting, heavy curtains, ceiling tiles, etc to absorb any noise. The sound you make therefore bounces off all walls and floor and ceiling and is only absorbed by the number of bodies in the room! If it is too loud, your audience will just leave because it is unpleasant and your sound is too distorted.

How long can we play for? Each band should aim to be on stage for 30 to 40 minutes. You should work out your play list well in advance so that each band member knows what to play next.

There is nothing designed to lose an audience more than a general chat by the band between songs whilst they decide what to play next - come ready and prepared to look professional.

How many people will be there? Only as many as you bring with you! Make sure you tell all your friends that you are appearing at HYPeR. Make posters and put them up at school (ask for permission first); put the word out on MySpace or Facebook. Make sure each band passes on the word. The more people who pay the small entry fee of £1 to get in - the more you will get paid! We are licensed for 180 people in the hall - so that is your target.

When do we set up? Usually about 6pm on the Friday you are playing - but you need to check with the manager first. You will have the opportunity to tune up, soundcheck for balance and decibel levels and run through a couple of songs. You can then stay in the building until Hyper opens officially at 7:00 pm

Please do not bring non-band members with you to the soundcheck as they will not be allowed in until 7:00 pm