Each time you play out is an opportunity to win new fans. That seems obvious enough, but few performers gear their shows with this idea in mind. Draven Grey explores some of the things you can do to create and expand your fan base for yourself and / or your band.
When you’re a working band, you never know whether your next call is going to be a gig or a message from your drummer telling you he’s decided to leave the band for a project involving a performance artist who imitates furniture. Fortunately for Mab O’Connor, it was ABC television calling.
Paying attention to the dynamics of a song can make you a better musician.This article discusses song dynamics and offers some examples of what to listen for.
Auditioning new members is a task you must take seriously. If you want to find serious musicians you have to be prepared. Here are some great tips on how to go about finding new band members.
You are never too old to rock and roll. Tracy’s empty nest project is playing bass for Drew’s Cruisers, house band for Jammer’s Bluenote Ballroom in Bemidji, Minnesota. This classically trained flute player is now playing songs by the Grateful Dead, Van Morrison, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash.
A contract is necessary for the protection of you and the club that’s decided to book you. It’s important that once dates are settled and price has been negotiated, that you put everything down in writing.
Dealing with people on the phone is an important part of being a working musician. If you want things to pan out with the people you meet it’s a good idea to make sure you have all your bases coverd beforehand. Asking the right questions will make sure your next audition isn’t a waste of anybody’s time.
The life blood of any band is advertising. The old saying is true: “any press is good press.” For your band to get gigs, you need people to hear about you, say your name, and talk about you.
Keeping track of names and phone numbers of band members and other musicians you meet is a habit that will pay off. Almost as important as remembering the names of the people you meet, is remembering how to get in touch with them. Starting a little black book is a valuable tool that will pay off when you need it most.
You are never too old or too young to be in a band. Mab O’Connor, lead singer of Yasgur’s Farm Band, writes about growing up and playing music in the heart of San Francisco. Her working band plays a selection of great songs from the Woodstock Era.