One of the most daunting tasks a musician has today is booking shows for the band. At entry and mid level this is almost always done by a band member, eventually with enough success and status will come a booking agent and manager to hammer out the details for you, but until then its good to designate one person in the band as a representative for this task.
Overall I can’t stress enough how important it is to be both organized, and professional. The person on the other end of the phone or at the club has no idea how good you or your band is, they are going to book you off of your professionalism, reputation, and press package. A good recording is very important because it represents you and helps the promoter to put you with other bands similar to your genre. There is nothing worse then a night with a pop alternative cover band followed by death metal.
Follow up is critical. It is a waste of your time and theirs if you send out or deliver a package that isn’t followed up on. Packages can be simple or expansive but should always contain a CD, photo, biography, contact information, and press sheets.
Once you follow up and secure the gig make sure to get all the details immediately so you aren’t having to phone a busy promoter twice a week for last minute details, or worse showing up at the wrong load in time or being late for your set.
Most of all, show up on time for load in, be respectful of the club, play a good set and you just might get asked back for a better night or as a supporting act for a national.
Here is a list of important things to remember when booking a show.
1. Venue Address and directions
2. Primary venue contact and stage manager’s name
3. PA requirements?
4. Is the show all ages, or 21+
5. What is the cost at the door
6. What other bands are playing and what is the line up
7. What time is load in and parking instructions
8. Sound check time (if applicable)
9. Backstage area/dressing rooms
10. What time is doors
11. What is your set time
12. What time is load out/closing
13. Payment information (flat rate or % of door)
14. Venue Capacity
15. Stage size
16. Guest list accommodations
17. Drink/Food tickets
18. Sound person’s name
