Tips for Musicians on Getting Gigs

If you are a local band wanting to make it big, you have to start somewhere. Finding local gigs should be part of getting your music out to an audience and building a base of fans who like what you play. Here are some tips on getting gigs.

Go Local

While you may want to play at top venues eventually, you are not going to get a good billing until you start to make a name for your band. Look at local fairs, farmer’s markets, summer music festivals and city celebrations. Talk to other local bands that have been around for a while to see if they need someone to play an opener for them. Check out larger venues to see if they book local bands when larger touring bands come to town.

Practice Regularly

Just because your guitarist has written a couple of songs you really like doesn’t mean you can sit around just waiting for a gig to drop in your lap. You need to be rehearsing frequently so your band can be tight. Everyone needs to be on the same page with the tempos and the chords so that you are at your best.

You also need to practice loading up to go to a gig so it will be as rehearsed as your music. Everyone should be given assignments so you aren’t left holding the bag. Get a cart or hand truck with dual wheel shock absorbing casters to help you haul the heavy sound equipment and make sure the vehicle you have will hold everything.

Network Everywhere

If you want to make money as a musician, you need to book some paying gigs. You can work with a promoter or with a venue or both. No matter what you do, be sure to have some promotion-worthy materials ready.

Being a musician in a band can be fun and you can make money doing it. Take some of these important steps and start getting those gigs you want.