Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker.

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count and/or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Contact the venue.

Call/email first to verify the person who handles booking musicians at the venue. If you email the person, send a link to your online booking kit. You want to build a relationship with the venue, so often it's best to drop off the booking kit in person rather than point them to your online kit. 

What should I do next?

• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker.

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count and/or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Contact the venue.

Call/email first to verify the person who handles booking musicians at the venue. If you email the person, send a link to your online booking kit. You want to build a relationship with the venue, so often it's best to drop off the booking kit in person rather than point them to your online kit. 

What should I do next?

• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker.

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count and/or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Contact the venue.

Call/email first to verify the person who handles booking musicians at the venue. If you email the person, send a link to your online booking kit. You want to build a relationship with the venue, so often it's best to drop off the booking kit in person rather than point them to your online kit. 

What should I do next?

• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• The Indie Band Survival Guide
• The DIY Music Manual

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker.

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count and/or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Contact the venue.

Call/email first to verify the person who handles booking musicians at the venue. If you email the person, send a link to your online booking kit. You want to build a relationship with the venue, so often it's best to drop off the booking kit in person rather than point them to your online kit. 

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

•  
• Booking Resources
• Eventful

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker.

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count and/or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Open for an established act

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important.

6. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

•  
• Booking Resources
• Eventful

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is often a difficult process that requires some research and a lot of persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate one booker

Your booker needs to be a people-person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. Usually, the booker is a member of the band, a friend, or fan. However, you can also use a booking agency.

2. Choose your collaboration and coordination tool

If you're in a band, then the booker will need a way to communicate and coordinate the schedules of all the members. Rather than rely on email, create an online band calendar by using free tools like Google or Yahoo! Calendar. These are shareable and allow all the members to mark which days they can't make a gig. 

3. Get your "music resume" items up-to-date

Update your "music resume" documents (your bio, discography, type of music you play, mailing list count or Eventful Demand number, etc.) . These items should be available online at your website or as a part of your online press kit so they can be downloaded and printed anytime your booker, a venue, or the press needs them. Once finalized, you can create your offline press kit.

4. Prepare your Press Kit and music

The booker will need your press kit and music (album, demo, etc.) avaialble so he or she can hand the material out in person at venues, festival bookers, etc. Learn how to make one here.

5. Prepare a target list of venues and festivals

You will want to make a list of places where you can play:

• Venues
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

5. Open for an established act

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

6. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

•  
• Booking Resources
• Eventful

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Press Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them. Learn how to make one here.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• Booking Resources
• Eventful
• Online Press Kits
• Booking Agencies
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Press Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them. Learn how to make one here.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• Booking Resources
• Online Press Kits
• Booking Agencies
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them. Learn how to make one here.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• Booking Resources
• Online Press Kits
• Booking Agencies
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How to Join a PRO and Get Double the Income
• How to sell your music at live shows
• How to make a press kit for your band  

References

• Booking Resources
• Online Press Kits
• Booking Agencies
• House Concerts
• Conferences
• Festivals

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Booking Resources
• Online Press Kits

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

Booking shows is a difficult process that requires lots of research and persistence. There are many steps to go through between writing a song and getting to play it live. From calendars to press kits, all the main steps are covered. 

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• Persistence

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show. When you know how much it takes to cover all the expenses, you will be confident when it comes time to negotiate. Be sure to figure out each venue's policy on merchandise as some will want up to 20% of all your sales, which you should also factor into your costs. If there are any contracts, make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching and reaching out to other bands to try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you. If you start to get really busy, it is time to start looking into having a booking agent. Agents have strong connections with venues and the venues trust their artists to be quality acts. Another way to continue gigging is through house concerts which people hold at their own residences. If you play one of these be sure to ask for a minimum payment guarantee in case there is low turn out or the show gets shut down. This also gives the hosts an incentive to bring in more people.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

When deciding on a price, start with exactly what you need to do the show and not how much you would like to get. Figure out all of the expenses, travel time, and opportunity costs of doing the show.

7. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important. The main thing to do at your first show is impress the venue so that you will be invited back in the future. Even if you are asked to play again at one place, does not mean that other venues will suddenly want you. Remember to save all your press clipping and update your show history in order to get booked at new venues that haven't heard of you yet.

5. Getting More Venues after Starting Out

Keep researching other bands and try forming a cartel where you open shows for each other. Some venues want to book a whole night's worth of entertainment at once, and this will appeal to them. Always be mindful of your band calendar so that you do not ever have to cancel a show. Many venues will ban you from their stage if you cancel, especially on short notice. If you must cancel, having partnerships with other bands will help you again, as you can ask them to replace you.

6. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

7. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

Getting the first show is the hardest as most venues are reluctant to take a chance on a brand new band. The best way to get into venues is by opening for an already established band, which is why relationships with other local bands is so important.

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

A CD. Include a CD of your latest album and make sure that all of your contact information is on the CD itself, in case it gets separated from the rest of your kit.

A cover page. This should have your contact information, website, and basic details about your sound setup or other needs. Put your contact information on every page of the kit.

Your band bio. A one-page document of the history of the band and each member.

Press clippings. A page of quotes and reviews of your past gigs. Include a gig history of everywhere you have played to prove your performing experience.

An eight-by-ten photo. This is the standard size used by most venues. Have one available to print from your site. Sometimes venues will want a glossy hard copy of the photo; find out ahead of time what they expect.

A live DVD. Live video of your band performing is the most convincing proof of your abilities.

Testimonials. If you have these, include them. These statements can make a booker who is on the fence ready to commit to a gig.

4. Getting Your First Show

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

The biggest obstacle of booking is scheduling times when everyone is available. Make an online band calendar like the ones Google and Yahoo! offer. They are shareable and every person can add their busy days to the calendar, and the booker can make sure days are free before booking the gig. Then the new gig dates can be added so everyone knows the details and nothing else will be booked over that time.

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

This is one of the few times you will actually need printed materials. You should have all of your booking materials online so that they can be printed and downloaded anytime you or a booker needs them.

4. Getting Your First Show

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows using your own press materials and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
•  

Directions

1. Designate a booker

One person in the band should take care of all the bookings. This will eliminate any double-booking incidents and clear up any contact confusion. If you are working with an agency, they should still give you just one contact. The booker needs to be a people person who can build relationships with venues, be persistent, and also handle rejection. This person should research similar bands, find out where they have played, and reach out to those venues.  

2. Coordinate Schedules

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

Don't just take the written words about the format from the website as gospel. Download, listen to, subscribe, and verify that your song would fit the format of the show if you reached out to them. You may find that given their personality or style that one of your other songs is a perfect fit for the show - not just the one you want to promote.

4. Getting Your First Show

Like most musicians, many have dayjobs and do other things with their time. They're busy. They have feelings. They're human. Some have set up a submission process at their site, but many haven't. If they have a submission process and you are sure your song is a good fit for the show, follow their instructions.

If they don't have submission instructions, then you should email them. Your email should:

• introduce who you are, your band name and website;
• tell them you've listened to their show (here's a tip - prove it by naturally telling them what you heard and what you liked about their show);
• tell them you have a song that you think would be fitting for the show;
• tell them it's podsafe; and
• ask about how best to submit it to them

If you hear back, follow their instructions and be sure to give them the key details again - the name of the song, your band name, your website, and where listeners can find the song they're playing for sale or download.

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book live shows with your own tools and connections.

Overview

The

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• An MP3 player or tagger to set the ID3 tags

Directions

1. Designate a booker

...

2. Coordinate Schedules

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

Don't just take the written words about the format from the website as gospel. Download, listen to, subscribe, and verify that your song would fit the format of the show if you reached out to them. You may find that given their personality or style that one of your other songs is a perfect fit for the show - not just the one you want to promote.

4. Getting Your First Show

Like most musicians, many have dayjobs and do other things with their time. They're busy. They have feelings. They're human. Some have set up a submission process at their site, but many haven't. If they have a submission process and you are sure your song is a good fit for the show, follow their instructions.

If they don't have submission instructions, then you should email them. Your email should:

• introduce who you are, your band name and website;
• tell them you've listened to their show (here's a tip - prove it by naturally telling them what you heard and what you liked about their show);
• tell them you have a song that you think would be fitting for the show;
• tell them it's podsafe; and
• ask about how best to submit it to them

If you hear back, follow their instructions and be sure to give them the key details again - the name of the song, your band name, your website, and where listeners can find the song they're playing for sale or download.

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Book your own gigs that will get you heard by fans and discovered by new fans.

Overview

The crucial steps to

Related Categories: Booking Resources, Online Press Kits

Estimated Preparation time: Days

Estimated Result Time: A few weeks

Estimated Cost: Low

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you are prepared to play in a live setting
• A press/booking kit
• An MP3 player or tagger to set the ID3 tags

Directions

1. Designate a booker

...

2. Coordinate Schedules

3. Create or Finalize Your Booking Kit

Don't just take the written words about the format from the website as gospel. Download, listen to, subscribe, and verify that your song would fit the format of the show if you reached out to them. You may find that given their personality or style that one of your other songs is a perfect fit for the show - not just the one you want to promote.

4. Getting Your First Show

Like most musicians, many have dayjobs and do other things with their time. They're busy. They have feelings. They're human. Some have set up a submission process at their site, but many haven't. If they have a submission process and you are sure your song is a good fit for the show, follow their instructions.

If they don't have submission instructions, then you should email them. Your email should:

• introduce who you are, your band name and website;
• tell them you've listened to their show (here's a tip - prove it by naturally telling them what you heard and what you liked about their show);
• tell them you have a song that you think would be fitting for the show;
• tell them it's podsafe; and
• ask about how best to submit it to them

If you hear back, follow their instructions and be sure to give them the key details again - the name of the song, your band name, your website, and where listeners can find the song they're playing for sale or download.

5. Setting a Price and Getting Paid

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

6. Working with Fans to Help You Book

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic

Result

Make MP3s out of your own music that will be playable by any fan, and have the right ID3 tags so that they will always find you

Overview

When you, as a musician are posing MP3s, don't just take the default settings. Change them to make it have the maximum playability by potential fans. Also ID3 tag all of your music so that they can find you -- no matter where they got the file in the first place.

Related Categories: MP3 Tools

Estimated Preparation time: 10 minutes per song

Estimated Result Time: Immediate

Estimated Cost: FREE

What You Need to Do This:

• Songs that you want to change to an MP3 format in either WAV, or CD form
• An MP3 Encoder
• An MP3 player or tagger to set the ID3 tags

Directions

1. Change your MP3 Encoder to these settings [PULL book Settings]

...

2. ...

3. Listen, Subscribe, & Verify the Podcast's Format & Style

Don't just take the written words about the format from the website as gospel. Download, listen to, subscribe, and verify that your song would fit the format of the show if you reached out to them. You may find that given their personality or style that one of your other songs is a perfect fit for the show - not just the one you want to promote.

4. Follow the Submission Instructions and/or Ask First

Like most musicians, many have dayjobs and do other things with their time. They're busy. They have feelings. They're human. Some have set up a submission process at their site, but many haven't. If they have a submission process and you are sure your song is a good fit for the show, follow their instructions.

If they don't have submission instructions, then you should email them. Your email should:

• introduce who you are, your band name and website;
• tell them you've listened to their show (here's a tip - prove it by naturally telling them what you heard and what you liked about their show);
• tell them you have a song that you think would be fitting for the show;
• tell them it's podsafe; and
• ask about how best to submit it to them

If you hear back, follow their instructions and be sure to give them the key details again - the name of the song, your band name, your website, and where listeners can find the song they're playing for sale or download.

5. Thank Them

Subscribe to their feed so you can hear the show and once it's been played - thank them! Do one better and promote their show on your website. Tell your fans where you've been played.

By following the steps above, you'll increase your odds of being played on podcasts. Better yet, the next time you have a song to get played and heard, you already have a connection with a podcaster who has played you before.

What should I do next?

• How To Track Where Your Music is Getting Played

References

• Podsafe Collectives
• Music Podcasts
• Creative Commons
• Podsafe Music Network
• Podsafe Audio
• Wikipedia Podcast Definition
• Creative Commons' Music Sharing License
• Creative Common's Comic