Booking a band

So, you’ve put together a really good band, and now you need to get some bookings. Here are some ideas that may help.

Is it a full time or part time gig for you?

Tips for getting some good gigs

• The way you approach booking your band depends upon several factors: the kind of music you play, the size of your market, the amount of competition, and whether you want to make the band a full or part time venture. While all of the following tips may not fit your particular situation, they are good rules of thumb.
• Make very sure you’re prepared to perform. You’ll need a suitable play list and must be well rehearsed. A good sound system is key.
• If you already know of a local venue that you would like to play, see if you can arrange an audition. You might also offer to play a night for free. The main idea here is for people to hear you. If the band is good, the demand for it will grow and so will the income.
• Put together a promotional package: picture, brief band member profiles, an explanation of the kind of band you are, a partial play list, a CD of one or two band recordings if you have any, and any favorable quotes or articles about the band. You may want to consider doing a recording if you haven’t already. The more professional looking the package is, the better: a band logo and original artwork are helpful.
• Auditions are the best route for booking the band locally, but the promo package is helpful for regional and more distant bookings. Send the package to any venue that might be interested in your type of music. A backup phone call is beneficial.
• Approach a reputable booking agent. Provide them with several promo packages and arrange for them to hear the band. Booking agents take a fee, but also have the means to book you at gigs you might not otherwise be aware of: private parties, special occasions and the like.
• Use the Internet. Put the info in your promo package on your Facebook page or create your own website. Update the site regularly, including your schedule, the daily workings of the band, new pictures and new recordings. You may also consider submitting your material to an online booking agent. There are lots of them.
• Showcase the band. A club owner may allow you to use his venue, or you can rent a suitable building. Provide a bar and munchies and invite anyone who can book you. Also invite a lot of friends and tell them to applaud frequently. Take lots of pictures for your Internet site. Make it a great party and people will remember.