When you think about gigging, the focus is generally on how much money can be made. This is of course an important reason to perform, but consideration should also be given for gaining experience, getting exposure, and making new industry contacts through networking. Performing at local nightclubs and bars is probably the most obvious way to 'get heard', but giving other events a try may be just what you or your band needs for that extra exposure. Here are a few ideas that may help get you noticed:
10 Performance Ideas to Get You Noticed
1) Festivals, Rodeos, Carnivals, Fairs
Google search local events in your area and make a list of those that interest you or your band. Generally, each event will have their own website (if not, send them over to Bandzoogle!) with a dedicated page for vendors and performers. Some have entrance fees, special requirements, or auditions. Make sure to follow the specific instructions set by each venue to stand out from the crowd of non-professionals who don't take their music career seriously.
2) Busking and the like
If you Google 'Busking' (street performing) you'll find a lot of good info on how it works and what to look out for. A couple nice sites to start with are The Busking Project and Busker World. Other busking-like ideas are Christmas Caroling, Campfire jams, and Beach bonfire sing-alongs. These may not be traditional performances, but they definitely renew the spirit of performing for the love of your craft.
3) Charity events
Contact local charity or non-profit organizations that speak to your heart and find out if they have any events planned for the year. Offer to perform at no cost in exchange for adding your name to the event program. This is a great exposure opportunity as well as a way to give back. Don't forget to add this sort of thing to your blog and make sure to add any newspaper write-ups to your Press kit as well.
4) House concerts
House concerts are a great way to make a little extra cash and make a few new fans along the way. Here is a great article by guest blogger Fran Snyder on this topic:
Dinner and a Song. This also reinforces the 'it should be fun to play music' ideal. Nurturing fan relationships is an important part of fan engagement, and house concerts encourage that dynamic.
5) Chamber of commerce mixers, Concerts in the park, Award ceremonies
Your local chamber of commerce or city office generally host cocktail parties and mixers for their members. Some may also hold events like fashion shows, mall events, and ribbon cutting ceremonies. Set up a meeting to discuss how you can play a part in these events. Not only will this increase exposure, but may also increase local contacts through business networking.
6) Corporate functions and Holiday parties
Your local city office is a great way to get a list of some of the larger companies in your community. Many companies (both large and small) host holiday parties or summer family days for their employees. Some may also hold annual sales meetings, training weekends, and retreats. Contacting these businesses early in the year will help get you noticed. Follow-up is key here and offering to play for free at smaller company functions may get your foot in the door for larger company events.
7) Parties (e.g. Sweet 16, Milestone birthdays, Bat/Bar Mitzfahs, Summer kickoffs, etc.)
This might seem like an option that is below the reputation of you or your band, but many people love having live entertainment at parties. My best advice here is to get all the details set in place well in advance with payment and a contract. That way even if they end up canceling, or having a smaller than anticipated crowd, you still get paid. When you put yourself out there for smaller parties, word gets around in the local community and this opens you up for more gigs in your area.
8) Weddings
I know, I know... this is a niche market, but just because you're not a dedicated 'wedding band' doesn't mean you should exclude yourself from offering this type of performance option. Partner up with a few wedding photographers or caterers to see how you can cross promote each other. Playing weddings can also open you up to meet families who are looking for a band or solo performer for other parties (as mentioned in idea #7). For some great tips on how to get more bookings for weddings & corporate gigs, check out this guest blog post by GigMasters: 3 Tips to Help Your Band Book Weddings, Corporate Gigs & More
9) Open mic and Karaoke
This may seem like a cheesy way to 'perform', but not only does it get you in front of people, it's good fun too! This performance idea is great for solo artists and bands that don't require live instruments. Can you imagine a girl group getting up there to karaoke a song in three part harmony? Or a full band customizing a rock song karaoke style? That may take a little planning, but would be impressive. Introduce you or your band a few seconds before the song starts, or end with a bang by holding up a banner with your band name and website address. After your song make sure to mingle with the crowd and pass out free download cards.
10) Contests
If you've not yet built a sizable following, another way to get noticed is to enter music contests. Many local theatres, radio stations, or community centers hold 'Battle of the Bands' or 'The Next Big {name of city} Star' contests. Join the roster of up and coming acts and have fun with it! This is also a good platform to try new material before taking it to the regular gig venues.
If music is genuinely your career path - get out there and perform!! Don't get bogged down by the 'what if's' of gigging. Yes, you should get paid, but sometimes you need to promote yourself in other ways before paying gigs are the norm. Don't be afraid to do things that may seem silly as these are frequently the events that will help get you new fans. And finally, try not to label some gigs as 'below' you or your status. Unless the performance is in a shady area or the promoter is known for flakiness....give it a go and enjoy yourself!!
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