How to Choose the Right Performance Opportunities
Performances are starting to trickle back in, and they’re ALL coming back— the good, the bad and the ugly.
Don’t get caught going back to those low-paying, low-reward gigs you said you were leaving behind.
Knowing what kind of gig will be a “good” one is an art in itself and something even experienced musicians can struggle with. Here’s some things to take into consideration when you’re booking your next gigs or your next tour and avoid that long post-gig slump.
Know what kind of venues are best for your music.
Think about where you want to be playing in 5 years. Seriously! What places are you looking to play? What kinds of shows? Visualize exactly where you want to be and start forming your sets to fit those places. Any gig that you take has to be CLOSER to your dream show, or else you are wasting your time.
Be thoughtful about your brand.
Would you believe me if I told you that playing certain venues can damage your reputation as a band?
Booking agents, managers, labels are more familiar with the scene than you can imagine. They know what venues are for young bands, which bands draw a crowd, and probably a lot of your drama as well.
Make sure to align the places you choose to play with the ethics of your band.
Time is your most important asset.
Make sure you’re really thinking about what each performance is giving you. Is it income? Experience? Getting in front of a new audience? Maybe even you’re just wanting to do things for fun!
We only have a short time on this planet, so you want to make sure you’re really using your time wisely in a way that fills your heart and enhances your craft.
Try not to play gigs where you lose money.
This seems like a no brainer, but if you calculate your time for the gig and rehearsals at a living wage for yourself and your bandmates, plus your travel expenses, you might see yourself just breaking even. This is a reality for most musicians who are just starting to break out.
Try to learn from every single gig, and do as much as you can to make sure that you’re not losing money on your shows. You’ll need that to survive.
Know some people where you are going.
It really helps if you’re playing out of town to know some folks who can come to your show, help to spread the word, and offer you a place to stay! It’s going to save you a boatload of hotel money and its gonna be more fun!
Happy playing and good luck!