PASSPORT PROGRAM: FURTHER READING

Congratulations on completing the Henhouse Prowlers “Passport to Success in the Music Business”! While we can only cover so much in one of these workshops, we’ve included a bunch of info and links here exclusively for people who complete the program. Success in the world of music takes a lot of hard work, but thanks to the internet, social media and other simple concepts, the power to promote a band is more in the hands of musicians than it has ever been before.

Good luck!

Four Customs to Ensure Musical Success

1. PRACTICE:

Before you can do anything in the music world, you need to become proficient on your instrument. Learning how to practice is a skill in and of itself. Click HERE to learn 10 ways to optimize your practice sessions.

2. BOOKING:

Once your band is ready to perform, you need to find shows! Here’s a list of things that can help make that a reality.

1. Make business cards - (see promote your band section graphic imaging help) - Business cards can also be hand written. Find a friend or family member with good penmanship!

2. Go see bands and talk to staff or people involved at the show - hand out your business card. Get comfortable building and maintaining relationships with people in the industry. Offer to open for bands that already have shows. Tell the promoter that you’ll bring people (then bring people!)

3. Look online where other local bands are playing

4. Ask other bands where they like to play

3: BE ON TIME:

WHile this may seem like a simple thing, it can set you apart from the competition. Being on time for a gig or appointment is often the first impression you give to someone that can give your band opportunities to play and more. A band that shows up on time is twice as likely to get a call back for a second gig.

4. BE COURTEOUS AND POLITE:

This one also can’t be stressed enough. Putting a little thought into how you interact with people in the music scene will come back to you.

1. Thank the venue in person during and after any shows. Also, send an email of thanks the following week.

2. While at the venue, Be respectful to the staff and sound crew. Too many times we’ve seen bands have bad sound because they were rude to the sound team.

3. After your set, break down your gear and get out of the way for the next band or for the staff to get the venue ready for the next day. These things are remembered the next time your band comes up as a possibility for a gig.

4. Don’t drink too much. Simple and effective.

FOUR WAYS TO PROMOTE YOUR BAND

1. WORD OF MOUTH:

There’s a reason this is number on on the list. Your friends and family are your biggest asset when starting out. These people care about you the most and will support you. Got an opening slot coming up at a venue in town? Make sure you bring as many people as possible by leaning on these connections. Tell them to tell their friends! Twenty + people coming to see you at a show will be noticed by a promoter. You will get asked back if you do the leg work to get the people closest to you out to a show.

2. SOCIAL MEDIA

This is obviously a big one. Everyone has access to social media, but not everyone uses it in an effective way. Here are some solid tips to making the most out of Facebook, Instagram and more.

Learn how to use free image editing software/apps like Canva. Having a well constructed image will set you apart.

Also, make sure you have a page on all social media platforms that are popular in your area!

3. BRAND CONSISTENCY

Decide your bands musical niche and stick to it!  Also, help the band look professional. Design a logo for your band (also in Canva!).  Clothing goes a long way to set your identity and brand!

4. MEDIA OUTREACH

Write a press release in google docs (free) and search for all the media outlets in the town you’re playing. Attach your logo to the top of the file and email it to every one you find.

Read: http://blog.sonicbids.com/band-press-release