As a musician, booking shows is an essential part of building your career and gaining exposure for your music. Live performances are a powerful way to connect with your audience and build a loyal following, and can even lead to bigger and better opportunities down the line. However, booking shows can be a daunting task, especially if you’re just starting out.
In order to successfully book shows for your band, you need to have a solid understanding of the process involved. This includes creating a press kit that showcases your music and highlights your strengths, researching venues that are a good fit for your band’s genre and style, making contact with venues and promoters, negotiating terms for the show, promoting the show to your fanbase, and ultimately, putting on a great performance.
Ultimately, the key to booking shows for your band is persistence, hard work, and a willingness to put yourself out there. With the right approach, you can start booking gigs and taking your music to the next level.
- Create a Press Kit
- Research Venues
- Make Contact
- Negotiate Terms
- Promote the Show
- Put on a Great Show
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in booking shows for your band, and related questions, from creating a press kit to putting on a great show.
CREATE A PRESS KIT
Before you start reaching out to venues and promoters, you’ll need to create a press kit (sometimes called a press release) that showcases your band’s music and highlights your strengths. A press kit is essentially a package that includes a demo of your music, a band bio, high-quality photos, and any press clippings or reviews you may have received.
To create a press kit, start by choosing your best songs and recording them in a professional studio. Then, write a band bio that includes your musical influences, your story, and any notable achievements. Finally, hire a professional photographer to take high-quality band photos that capture your style and energy.
Check out our Step-By-Step Guide To Crafting An Effective Music Press Release (15 Steps).
When putting together your press kit, it’s important to make sure that everything looks and sounds professional. Remember, your press kit is the first impression you’ll make on venues and promoters, so it needs to be impressive.
RESEARCH VENUES
Once you have a press kit, you can start researching venues in your area that host live music. One of the most important steps is finding the right venues to perform at. Here are some key factors to consider when researching venues:
GENRE & STYLE
The first thing to consider is whether the venue is a good fit for your band’s genre and style. Different venues cater to different audiences and musical styles, so choosing a venue that aligns with your band’s sound and vibe is important. For example, if you play acoustic folk music, a coffee shop or intimate acoustic lounge may be a better fit than a noisy bar or club.
CAPACITY & SIZE
Another important factor to consider is the size and capacity of the venue. If you’re just starting out, it may be best to start with smaller venues that can accommodate a few dozen people. As you gain more experience and a larger following, you can start booking shows at larger venues with greater capacity.
Keep in mind that the size of the venue can also impact the energy of the performance—smaller venues can create a more intimate and engaging experience, while larger venues can be more high-energy and dynamic.
LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY
Location is also an important consideration when researching venues. Look for venues that are easily accessible by public transportation or that have ample parking. Consider the neighborhood and surrounding businesses as well—is it a safe area with a lot of foot traffic?
Have you ever wondered how bands and musicians get from show to show? Check out The Ins & Outs Of Touring In A Van & Making It A Comfortable Experience.
If your band has a strong local following, you may want to choose venues that are located in areas where your fans are likely to be.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Finally, make sure to take note of any technical requirements the venue may have. This could include things like a certain type of sound system, lighting, or stage setup. Make sure that your band can accommodate these requirements or that the venue is willing to provide them for you. Being prepared and meeting the technical needs of the venue can help ensure a smooth and successful performance.
By taking the time to research venues and choose the right ones for your band, you’ll be setting yourself up for success when it comes to booking shows. Once you have a list of potential venues, you can start reaching out and making contacts to start booking gigs.
MAKE CONTACT
With your press kit and list of potential venues, you can start reaching out to venues and promoters to book shows. Making contact with venues and promoters can be a daunting task, but it’s an important step in booking shows for your band.
Check out these 10 Tips For Booking A Successful First Tour For Your Band.
The first thing you’ll need to do is decide how you want to make contact—by email or phone. Most venues and promoters will have a preference, so make sure to do your research and find out what that is before reaching out.
When writing an email or making a phone call, make sure to introduce yourself and your band, and provide them with your press kit. Your press kit should include a demo of your music, a band bio, high-quality photos, and any press clippings or reviews you may have received. Make sure to attach or link to your press kit in your email, and include all the necessary information in your phone call.
BOOKING EMAIL TEMPLATE
Here’s an example of an email you could send to a venue or promoter:
Subject: Booking Inquiry: [Your Band Name]
Dear [Venue Name] team,
My name is [Your Name] and I’m the lead singer of [Your Band Name], a [Genre] band based in [Location]. I came across your venue online and was impressed by the quality of shows you host.
We’re currently looking to book shows in the [Month/Year] and would love to perform at your venue. Please find our press kit attached for your consideration.
We noticed that you recently hosted [Band Name], one of our favorite acts. We would love the opportunity to play at your venue and share our music with your audience. Our live show is energetic and engaging, and we’re confident it would be a great fit for your venue.
If you’re interested in booking us, please let us know what dates are available and what the compensation would be. We’re flexible and willing to work with you to find a deal that works for everyone.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing back from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Band Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
BE PROFESSIONAL
It’s important to be polite and professional when making contact with venues and promoters. Remember, they receive a lot of emails and phone calls from bands, so you want to make sure that you stand out in a positive way. Use proper grammar and spelling, and make sure to address the recipient by name if possible.
ALWAYS FOLLOW-UP
If you don’t hear back right away, don’t be discouraged. Venues and promoters are often busy and may not have time to respond to every inquiry they receive. However, it’s important to be persistent and follow up with a phone call or email after a few days. This shows that you’re serious about booking a show and increases your chances of getting a response.
Overall, making contact with venues and promoters requires patience, persistence, and professionalism. With a good press kit and a positive attitude, you can start booking shows for your band and taking your music to the next level.
NEGOTIATE TERMS
Negotiating the terms of a show is an important part of the booking process, as it ensures that both you and the venue are on the same page about the details of the event. When negotiating, it’s important to be professional and assertive, but also flexible and willing to compromise if necessary.
COMPENSATION
One of the most important things to negotiate is compensation. Make sure you and the venue agree on how much you’ll be paid for the gig and any other details related to payment, such as when you’ll be paid and how. If you’re just starting out, you may need to be willing to play for free or for a small fee, but as your band becomes more established, you can start negotiating for higher pay.
DATE & TIME
You’ll also need to negotiate the date and time of the show. Make sure to choose a date and time that works well for both you and the venue, and that gives you enough time to prepare and promote the event. If the venue has a preferred date or time that doesn’t work for you, be willing to negotiate for an alternative date or time that works better for both parties.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Technical requirements are another important consideration when negotiating the terms of a show. Be clear about what equipment you’ll need, such as sound and lighting equipment, and make sure the venue is able to provide it. If the venue doesn’t have the equipment you need, you may need to rent it or bring your own. Make sure to negotiate who will be responsible for providing and setting up the equipment to avoid any confusion on the day of the show.
COMPROMISE
Remember, negotiating can be a give-and-take process, so be willing to compromise on some details if it means getting the gig. However, don’t be afraid to stand firm on important details, such as compensation and technical requirements.
By negotiating the terms of the show, you’ll be able to ensure that both you and the venue are happy with the details of the event, and that you’re able to put on the best show possible.
PROMOTE THE SHOW
Once the show is confirmed, it’s time to start promoting it. Promotion is key to getting people to attend the show and building a following for your band. There are several ways you can promote your show, including:
SOCIAL MEDIA PROMOTION
Social media is an incredibly powerful tool for promoting shows and building a following for your band. Use your band’s social media accounts to create buzz around the upcoming show. Start by creating an event page on Facebook or other platforms and sharing posts and stories about the show. Share behind-the-scenes footage of your band rehearsing, give sneak peeks of new songs, and encourage fans to tag their friends in your posts.
Make sure to interact with fans who are interested in attending. Respond to comments and messages, and make them feel valued and appreciated. You can also consider running social media contests or giveaways to encourage fans to share your posts and attend the show.
EMAIL PROMOTION
If you have an email list, sending out an announcement about the show can be an effective way to reach your fans directly. Make sure to include all the important details, such as the date, time, location, and ticket price. You can also consider offering a special discount code for subscribers or other incentives to encourage them to attend.
POSTERS & FLYERS PROMOTION
Creating eye-catching posters and flyers is a classic way to promote shows. Make sure to include all the important details, such as the date, time, location, and ticket price, as well as a photo of the band and a catchy tagline. Hang up the posters and flyers in high-traffic areas such as local coffee shops, music stores, and other venues.
WORD-OF-MOUTH PROMOTION
Encouraging your fans and friends to spread the word about the show can be one of the most effective ways to get people to attend. Make sure to remind fans to invite their friends and share the event on social media. You can also consider offering incentives for fans who bring their friends to the show, such as free merchandise or discounted tickets.
Fans are the best at word-of-mouth promotion. Check out these 15 Effective Ways Fans Can Support Their Favorite Bands & Musicians.
In summary, promotion is a crucial part of booking shows for your band. Utilize social media, email, posters and flyers, and word of mouth to get the word out about your upcoming show. By promoting the show effectively, you can attract more fans and build a stronger following for your band.
PUT ON A GREAT SHOW
On the day of the show, it’s important to be prepared and give it your all on stage. Putting on a great show is essential to impressing the audience, building a following, and securing future gigs. Here are some tips to help you put on a great show:
REHEARSE
Rehearsing is crucial for putting on a great live performance. Practice your songs enough times to feel comfortable performing them live. Each band member should be familiar with their part, and you should practice together as a group, focusing on timing, dynamics, and transitions between songs.
Does your band need somewhere to rehearse? Check out our list of 10 Practice Spaces For Bands That Have Nowhere To Rehearse.
Consider recording your practice sessions to identify areas for improvement. Take breaks and stretch to avoid physical fatigue. Rehearsing helps build chemistry as a band, improving your stage presence and overall sound. Dedicate time and effort to rehearsing, so you’ll be well-prepared to give your audience an unforgettable show.
ARRIVE EARLY & PREPARED
Arriving early and being prepared is crucial to putting on a great show. By arriving early, you give yourself time to set up your equipment, make any necessary adjustments, and soundcheck before the show. This ensures that your performance will sound the best it can be and that any technical issues can be addressed before the audience arrives.
In addition to arriving early, it’s important to make sure that you have all the equipment you need and that it’s in working order. This includes instruments, amplifiers, microphones, and any other gear you may need for your performance. Make a checklist beforehand and double-check everything before you leave for the venue.
Have you ever wondered what goes into planning a great concert? Check out these 12 Things Musicians Actually Do Before A Show (With Examples).
By arriving early and being prepared, you’ll be able to focus on putting on a great show rather than worrying about technical issues or rushing to set up before your set. This will help you deliver a memorable performance that the audience will love.
ENGAGE WITH THE AUDIENCE
Engaging with the audience during a live performance is essential for creating a memorable and entertaining show. It helps to create a connection with the audience and make them feel like they are part of the experience.
One way to do this is by interacting with them throughout the performance. This can include talking to the audience between songs, encouraging them to participate, and making eye contact with them. By doing this, you can create a more intimate and personal atmosphere, which can help to increase the audience’s enjoyment of the show.
Another way to engage with the audience is by tailoring your performance to their energy level. If the audience is pumped up and energetic, match their energy by playing more upbeat songs and encouraging them to dance and sing along. If the audience is more laid back, consider playing some slower or more introspective songs to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
PUT ON A SHOW
Putting on a show is a crucial part of live performance that can set your band apart from others. It’s not enough to just play your songs—you need to engage the audience visually and musically to create a memorable experience. To do this, consider using lighting effects, props, and stage movements that add to the atmosphere of the performance. Plan out your setlist to create a dynamic flow that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
Check out our guide on How To Create A Successful Live Performance Experience (With Examples).
In addition to the music, consider the visual elements of your performance, such as your outfits, stage design, and lighting. Coordinated outfits can create a cohesive look for your band and make a strong visual impact. Lighting effects can also enhance the mood of your performance and create a more immersive experience for the audience.
BE PROFESSIONAL & RESPECTFUL
Being professional and respectful is key to building a good reputation in the music industry. When you’re booking shows for your band, it’s important to remember that you’re representing not only yourself but also your band and the music community as a whole.
One way to show professionalism and respect is by thanking the venue staff and promoters for the opportunity to play. These individuals work hard to make live music possible, and showing gratitude for their efforts can go a long way in building positive relationships.
Another way to demonstrate professionalism and respect is by being mindful of the venue’s space and leaving it clean and tidy after the show. This not only shows that you care about the venue and its staff, but it also makes it easier for them to prepare for the next event.
CONNECT WITH FANS AFTER THE SHOW
Connecting with fans after the show is a crucial part of building a following for your band. It shows that you value your fans and appreciate their support. Sticking around after the show to meet fans, sell merch, and sign autographs can be a great way to make connections and build relationships with your audience. This can lead to more loyal fans, word-of-mouth promotion, and, ultimately, more gigs in the future.
When connecting with fans after the show, be friendly and approachable. Take the time to talk to each fan, sign autographs, and take photos. Encourage them to follow your band on social media and sign up for your email list. This will help you stay in touch with your fans and keep them updated on your upcoming shows and releases.
Some bands will connect with fans by holding a meet-and-greet. Check out our Fan’s Guide To Meet & Greets: Tips & Tricks For Making It Memorable.
Remember, your fans are your biggest supporters, and connecting with them after the show can be a great way to show your appreciation and build a strong fan base.
BOOKING SHOWS AS A BAND OR ARTIST
Booking shows as a band or artist can be a challenging but rewarding process. By creating a professional press kit, researching venues, making contact, negotiating terms, promoting the show, and putting on a great performance, you can build a following for your band and take your music to the next level.
Remember, booking shows takes time and effort, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a gig right away. Keep practicing, honing your craft, and reaching out to venues, and eventually, you’ll find the right opportunities to showcase your music. Good luck!
RELATED QUESTIONS
How do I know which venues to target for my band’s shows?
Research venues in your area that regularly host live music and look for ones that match your band’s genre and style. You can also ask other musicians or industry professionals for recommendations.
How should I price my band’s shows?
Consider factors like the size of the venue, your band’s experience and popularity, and what other bands in your area are charging. You can also negotiate with the venue or promoter to find a fair price.
What should I include in my band’s press kit?
Your press kit should include a demo of your music, a band bio, high-quality photos, and any press clippings or reviews you may have received. Make sure everything looks and sounds professional.
How can I make my band’s live shows more engaging for the audience?
Engage with the audience, tell stories or anecdotes, and make sure your band’s energy is high. Consider incorporating visual elements like lighting or projections to enhance the performance.
What should I do if I’m having trouble booking shows for my band?
Keep trying! It may take time and persistence to find the right opportunities. Consider reaching out to other musicians or industry professionals for advice and networking opportunities. You can also consider playing smaller or more unconventional venues to build up your experience and reputation.
For more industry tips and music marketing hacks, check out Ennui Magazine. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.