Live Bands and Gigs

5. Invite Press
Having a local journalist do a story on your performance can be a great way off gaining exposure, as well as add to your portfolio. If you live in a small town or suburban area with a decent art & entertainment scene, some journalists go out to random venues just to post pictures or write short clips. Either way, you should always be on top of your game and meet these people. If you are doing a major benefit, you may be able to get local news coverage.

6. Tip Your Waitresses And Bartenders
I do not care what your policies are on tipping people when in the general public, but you should ALWAYS tip when you are a guest performer in their establishment. Tipped employees remember those who do not tip and will hold it against you. Do not forget that they are working just as hard for you. I always tip 15% – 20% of my tab, but you can also consider giving your servers a flat fee for the entire band. Even if your entire tab is comped or you are just drinking water, you should leave a tip. This will establish good relations with your co-workers for the night (and future gigs) as well as keep things professional.

7. Flyers Are Effective, But Not The Only Method Of Promotion
Flyers have always been the de facto way to promote gigs, however you can find other standard methods to promote your gigs that give you double exposure. Scheduling radio interviews or acoustic performances before a major gig can place you into the public eye and promote the show at the same time. Think about what type of people may be at your particular gig, how do they get their information? If you have an upcoming gig at a local university coffeehouse, try scheduling an interview/short performance with the campus radio station. If you have a gig coming up at a well-known rock club, try scheduling a print interview with some of the publications that may be available in the lobby of the establishment.

In addition to these tips, complete the following exercise:

a. What was the best gig you have ever had and would made it great?
b. What are three things your band needs to work in terms of stage performance?
c. Name four outlets you use for promotion:
d. How many gigs does your band play a month? How many would you like to be doing?
e. Describe your last three gigs. Compare and contrast them. Which was more beneficial?

Source: www.ultimate-guitar.com