How JRehearsal Streamlines Rehearsal Planning for Ensembles

Getting Started with JRehearsal: A Step-by-Step Setup TutorialJRehearsal is a music rehearsal management app designed to help bands, ensembles, and directors plan rehearsals, organize setlists, share resources, and collaborate more effectively. This tutorial walks you through setting up JRehearsal from scratch, configuring your account, creating your first ensemble, scheduling rehearsals, building setlists, and using collaboration tools so your group spends less time coordinating and more time making music.

1. Create your account and choose a plan

1. Visit the JRehearsal website or download the app from your device’s app store.
2. Sign up using an email address or a supported social login.
3. Choose a plan (free or paid). The free plan often includes basic features — scheduling, a limited number of members, and basic setlist tools — while paid plans unlock advanced features such as expanded member limits, cloud storage for files, integrations, and priority support.
4. Verify your email (if required) and complete your profile by adding a display name, profile photo, and role (e.g., band leader, member, manager).

2. Configure your ensemble (band, choir, or orchestra)

1. From your dashboard, click “Create Ensemble” or “New Group.”
2. Enter the ensemble name, genre, rehearsal location(s), and a short description.
3. Set privacy options: public (searchable), private (invite only), or hidden.
4. Add default rehearsal settings such as rehearsal duration, default start times, and notification preferences.
5. Invite initial members by entering their email addresses or sharing an invite link. Assign roles (admin, editor, member) to control permissions.

3. Set up locations and rooms

1. Add rehearsal locations under “Venues” or “Locations.” Include address, contact info, and any notes about parking or access.
2. If your ensemble uses different rooms or spaces (main hall, practice room A), create sub-locations to schedule specific rooms.
3. Configure availability for each location to prevent double-booking.

4. Create a repertoire library

1. Open the “Repertoire” or “Songs” section.
2. Add songs with metadata: title, composer, arranger, key, tempo (BPM), duration, and difficulty level.
3. Upload files: lead sheets, scores, MP3s, rehearsal tracks, PDF parts, and video references. All uploads should be clearly named and optionally organized into folders.
4. Tag songs with keywords (e.g., “upbeat,” “ballad,” “audition”) to make searching easier.
5. Create templates for common arrangements (verse-chorus-bridge sections, solos, repeats) that can be reused across songs.

5. Build setlists and session plans

1. From a song’s page, click “Add to Setlist” or go to the “Setlists” area and create a new setlist.
2. Drag songs into the desired order. Set tempo for each song, assign keys, and add notes for each item (e.g., “start cue 8 bars in,” “shorten tag” ).
3. For each rehearsal, attach a session plan: warm-up exercises, sectionals, targeted measures to work on, and goals.
4. Share setlists with members so they can practice individually before rehearsal.

6. Schedule rehearsals and events

1. Use the calendar view to create a rehearsal event. Enter date, start and end time, location, and rehearsal leader.
2. Attach the setlist and session plan to the event.
3. Add reminders and RSVP options so members can confirm attendance.
4. Enable conflict detection to warn members of overlapping events.
5. For recurring rehearsals, set the recurrence pattern (weekly, biweekly, custom) and exceptions (skip dates, additional sessions).

7. Communication and collaboration tools

1. Use the ensemble chat or message board to post announcements, rehearsal notes, and recordings. Pin important messages like schedule changes or file links.
2. Assign tasks to members (e.g., “bring metronome,” “print parts,” “arrange Mingus tune”) with due dates and completion tracking.
3. Enable in-app notifications and email summaries so members stay informed without checking the app constantly.
4. Use versioned files so members always access the latest chart or rehearsal track.

8. Run your first rehearsal with JRehearsal

1. Open the rehearsal event and confirm the attached setlist and session plan.
2. Use the built-in metronome and click tracks during practice.
3. Mark progress on session goals during rehearsal and record short practice clips for later review.
4. Take notes in the event log about sections that need more work; these sync back to the repertoire items as practice targets.
5. After rehearsal, upload any recordings and post a summary with next steps and homework for members.

9. Integrations and advanced features

1. Link cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for larger files and automatic backups.
2. Integrate calendar feeds (iCal, Google Calendar) so rehearsals appear in personal calendars.
3. Connect with sheet music providers or notation apps for seamless score updates.
4. Use analytics (if available) to track attendance, practice time, and repertoire progress.

10. Best practices and tips

• Keep metadata complete — keys, tempos, and tags save time.
• Use setlist templates for different gig types (wedding, concert, rehearsal run-through).
• Encourage members to upload practice takes to accelerate progress.
• Regularly clean the repertoire library to remove outdated or unused files.
• Assign a tech/admin role to manage invites, locations, and permissions.

If you want, I can convert this into a printable PDF, create checklist templates for onboarding new members, or write email templates for rehearsal announcements.