Getting that gig
By Roger FauskeYou have formed your band, got a name and now naturally enough want some killer gigs to show the world what you can do.
A word of advice before you start - make sure your set is well rehearsed and tight before you even think about it. I have seen more than a few bands who may possibly have got somewhere but played their first gigs before they were ready with the result that they got a bad name before they really started. Once people have seen a bad performance, it can take a lot to win them back.
Local pubs, clubs, bars, halls, etc all make possible venues. One that does regular music is the best as you then have an existing audience. You need to approach the venue management, or promotion company if applicable. If you can, do some research beforehand. It can save a lot of time trying to get gigs in totally unsuitable venues. Ask people what certain venues are like or go there and see for yourself.
Now you should have an idea of venues and promoters. Contact them and get their postal address. Send them a CD and very brief band details. 3 songs is enough and make sure band name and contact details are on the CD. Never e-mail an MP3 or link to your music, unless requested. Promoters especially receive countless CDs and requests so will not take extra time and effort unless they know it is worthwhile.
Send a covering letter, a brief one!! Include band basics, where you are playing and a very brief history. No one wants to know your life story!! As much as it may sound like going back to school, check your covering letter for mistakes. First impressions really do count.
Think about it this way - everything you do is to get the venue / promoter to listen to your CD. Once that has happened your music should speak for itself. Unfortunately if it has nothing to say then no amount of free gifts, flattery or beer vouchers are going to help you.
It does no harm to chase up the venue / promoter if you have heard nothing back. Don't push it too hard or if they haven't listened yet then that may put them off. Don't expect every promoter to love you even if you are that good. Life isn't like that and don't expect a nationwide tour offer in the next post. But if your music has something to say don't be put off by a first refusal.
A word of advice before you start - make sure your set is well rehearsed and tight before you even think about it. I have seen more than a few bands who may possibly have got somewhere but played their first gigs before they were ready with the result that they got a bad name before they really started. Once people have seen a bad performance, it can take a lot to win them back.
Local pubs, clubs, bars, halls, etc all make possible venues. One that does regular music is the best as you then have an existing audience. You need to approach the venue management, or promotion company if applicable. If you can, do some research beforehand. It can save a lot of time trying to get gigs in totally unsuitable venues. Ask people what certain venues are like or go there and see for yourself.
Now you should have an idea of venues and promoters. Contact them and get their postal address. Send them a CD and very brief band details. 3 songs is enough and make sure band name and contact details are on the CD. Never e-mail an MP3 or link to your music, unless requested. Promoters especially receive countless CDs and requests so will not take extra time and effort unless they know it is worthwhile.
Send a covering letter, a brief one!! Include band basics, where you are playing and a very brief history. No one wants to know your life story!! As much as it may sound like going back to school, check your covering letter for mistakes. First impressions really do count.
Think about it this way - everything you do is to get the venue / promoter to listen to your CD. Once that has happened your music should speak for itself. Unfortunately if it has nothing to say then no amount of free gifts, flattery or beer vouchers are going to help you.
It does no harm to chase up the venue / promoter if you have heard nothing back. Don't push it too hard or if they haven't listened yet then that may put them off. Don't expect every promoter to love you even if you are that good. Life isn't like that and don't expect a nationwide tour offer in the next post. But if your music has something to say don't be put off by a first refusal.